You, a living person, are telling me I've served in the underworld for ten years?

Jiang He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.

"This matter is indeed thorny and increasingly perplexing."

We still have too little information. Their true intentions, the specific attitude of the "Grotto-Heaven and Blessed Land", and the role played by the "Dark Star" all require further investigation.

"Sect Leader Chen, it seems our previous assessment was correct. Joint action, resource sharing, and intelligence exchange are of utmost urgency."

"Exactly that."

Chen Yang echoed.

"Besides infiltration and finding entry points, does your bureau have any plans or leads regarding direct action against the 'Heavenly Alliance' and 'Dark Star' recently?"

Just as Jiang He was about to answer, there was a gentle knock on the office door.

A young officer in a Special Administration Bureau uniform pushed open the door and entered, speaking respectfully to Jiang He.

"Minister Jiang, the director requests your immediate presence, saying there is an emergency."

Jiang He glanced at Chen Yang, hesitated for a moment, and then extended an invitation to Chen Yang.

"Sect Leader Chen, since the Director has summoned you, it must be for important business. You are no stranger here, so why don't you come with me? Perhaps this matter is also related to the current situation."

Chen Yang was eager to learn more about the Special Administration Bureau's movements, so he naturally wouldn't refuse and stood up.

"Alright, then I'll take the trouble."

The two followed the clerk and soon arrived at the door of Director Wang Chengnan's office. Jiang He gestured for the clerk to announce their arrival, and soon Wang Chengnan's strong and energetic voice came from inside.

"Come in."

The two pushed open the door and entered. The office was more spacious than Jianghe's, and the furnishings were more antique and dignified, with several landscape paintings with profound artistic conception hanging on the walls.

Wang Chengnan was standing in front of the huge floor-to-ceiling window, looking outside, when he heard the sound and turned around.

He was about fifty years old, with a square face, bright and piercing eyes, and an upright posture, exuding an aura of authority without anger.

When he saw Chen Yang behind Jiang He, the serious expression on his face immediately softened, and he even put on a warm smile.

"Young friend Chen Yang? Haha, what a rare guest! I didn't expect you to be here too, perfect timing!"

Wang Chengnan quickly stepped forward and offered his hand.

Chen Yang stepped forward and shook hands with him, smiling.

"Director Wang, it's been a long time. I hope you won't mind my unannounced visit."

"Not at all! You are a distinguished guest of our Special Administration Bureau, and more importantly, a comrade-in-arms who fought alongside us!"

Wang Chengnan shook Chen Yang's hand firmly, his tone sincere.

"During the last Northwest operation, thanks to your and the Qingwei Sect's strong support, we were able to achieve such great results and obtain so much crucial information. Otherwise, our understanding of the 'Heavenly Dao Alliance' and the forces behind it would probably have been much slower."

"Our Special Administration Bureau remembers this favor! Jiang He has spoken highly of your contributions to me."

Jiang He laughed from the side.

"Director, Master Chen is a very low-key person. If you praise him any further, he'll get embarrassed."

Chen Yang waved his hand.

"Director Wang is too kind. Minister Jianghe has already expressed his gratitude many times. The Qingwei faction and the Special Administration Bureau are allies, helping each other out. It's our duty, so there's no need to mention it again."

"Great! That's awesome!"

Wang Chengnan laughed and patted Chen Yang on the shoulder, then gestured for the two to sit on the sofa in the reception area.

"Please sit down, sit down and let's talk. Xiao Liu, bring us a pot of better tea!"

After the secretary served the tea and left, Wang Chengnan's smile faded, and he looked at Jiang He, speaking seriously.

"Jiang He, the reason I called you here so urgently is because I just received an urgent message from the Qinling Mountains."

Jiang He's expression hardened.

"Director, please speak."

Wang Chengnan said in a deep voice.

“Our monitoring stations in the Qinling Mountains of Shaanxi, along with several observers on the periphery, almost simultaneously reported that in the past three days, abnormal energy fluctuations and signs of spatial distortion have appeared in several areas deep in the Qinling Mountains that were originally sparsely populated and had relatively rich spiritual energy.”

Preliminary analysis and close reconnaissance by advance teams have basically confirmed that there are at least three, possibly four or five, signs of 'celestial traces' or similar ancient secret realms or ruins opening or appearing!

"Multiple signs of divine intervention appearing simultaneously?"

Jiang He frowned deeply.

"So densely packed? In the past, the appearance of such relics was often spaced out by several years or even longer, and the commotion was never so great or so concentrated."

This is very unusual.

"That's definitely not normal."

Wang Chengnan nodded.

"What's even more unusual is that the news somehow leaked out, or perhaps the fluctuations emanating from these divine traces themselves attracted attention from all sides. Now, things are in complete chaos in the Qinling Mountains!"

Besides our official personnel, at least a dozen large and small sects and aristocratic families have also heard the news and are gathering in those areas.

What's even more troublesome is—"

He emphasized his words.

"Our scouts have discovered traces of members of the 'Heavenly Alliance,' as well as figures suspected to be mercenaries or collaborators of 'Dark Star'!"

Their men infiltrated as well, and judging by their appearance, they were well-prepared and had a clear objective!

Jiang He's expression changed.

"They acted so quickly? It seems their sensitivity and intelligence capabilities regarding these types of incidents far exceed our expectations. Director, what do you mean?"

Wang Chengnan stared sharply at Jiang He.

"The bureau has decided to immediately establish a highly capable special operations team, led by you personally, to rush to the Qinling Mountains! There are several missions involved."

First, we should acquire as many resources, inheritances, or intelligence as possible within the Immortal Realm to strengthen ourselves.

Second, closely monitor the movements of personnel related to the 'Heavenly Alliance' and 'Dark Star', find out what they are trying to do, and take action to interfere or stop them if necessary.

Third, maintain basic order and prevent large-scale infighting among sects over the treasures, which would cause unnecessary losses and turmoil. Remember, this journey is perilous; various forces are mixed together, and the fate within those immortal sites is unknown. Exercise utmost caution!

Jiang He immediately stood up, straightened his back, and solemnly replied.

"Yes, sir! Don't worry, Chief, I'll select the men and get ready to go right away!"

Wang Chengnan nodded.

"Okay! Don't delay, get on it right away. Tell the logistics department what equipment and support you need, and we'll handle it as a special case!"

Jiang He turned to leave, and Chen Yang also stood up.

Wang Chengnan looked at Chen Yang and said with a hint of apology.

"Young friend Chen Yang, look at this unexpected situation..."

Chen Yang smiled slightly and took the initiative to speak.

"Director Wang, Minister Jianghe, since this concerns the 'Heavenly Alliance' and the Immortal Traces,' our Qingwei Sect has an unshirkable responsibility."

Do we need to coordinate our efforts? More resources mean more protection.

Upon hearing this, Jiang He's eyes lit up, and he looked at Wang Chengnan.

After a moment's hesitation, Wang Chengnan nodded decisively.

"it is good!

It's wonderful that young friend Chen Yang is willing to lend a helping hand! Your sect has many experts; if you could participate, our chances of success on this trip would be even greater.

But... wouldn't that be too much trouble for your esteemed faction?

"Director Wang, you're too kind."

Chen Yang said solemnly.

"Fighting against the 'Heavenly Dao Alliance' and exploring the mysteries of the immortal traces is simply the duty of our Qingwei Sect. Moreover, we have just discussed deepening our cooperation, and now is a good opportunity to fight side by side."

"Well said!"

Wang Chengnan praised.

"Then I would like to trouble you, young friend Chen Yang, to gather some capable people to go with Jiang He's team. You two can discuss the specific coordination."

"Yes!"

Jiang He and Chen Yang responded in unison.

Without further delay, the two bid farewell to Wang Chengnan and quickly left the director's office.

Stepping into the outer corridor, Jiang He said to Chen Yang, "Sect Leader Chen, I'll go gather my most capable team members and prepare the equipment. You, on the other hand..."

"I'll contact my people right away."

Chen Yang said.

"Shall we agree on a meeting point and then set off together?"

"it is good!"

Jiang He thought about it.

"How about we meet at the third helipad on the west side of headquarters in an hour? We may need to take several helicopters to the outer perimeter first, and then decide whether to take a car or walk into the core area depending on the specific situation."

"can."

Chen Yang nodded in agreement.

After the two parted ways, Chen Yang returned to Jiang He's office, closed the door, and immediately took out his phone.

He dialed Gu Jinghui's number first. The call was answered quickly, and Gu Jinghui's voice, which sounded somewhat lazy yet contained a hint of wariness, came through.

"Chen Yang? What trouble have you run into this time? Or did those people from the Special Administration Bureau give you a hard time?"

"neither."

Chen Yang's words were concise and to the point.

"I'm at the Special Administration Bureau."

There's an emergency. They've discovered signs of multiple simultaneous manifestations of divine traces in the Qinling Mountains. Various forces have rushed there, including members of the 'Heavenly Dao Alliance' and 'Dark Star.' The Special Administration Bureau has formed an action team and invited us to participate."

"Signs of divine intervention? And multiple locations simultaneously?"

Gu Jinghui's voice immediately perked up, showing obvious interest.

"That's strange! What, do you need this old man to step in? I'll set off right away!"

"Do not."

Chen Yang denied his guess.

"You stay at the mountain temple. I need Uncle Li to come over."

"Huh? You want me to stay and watch the house?"

Gu Jinghui's voice immediately fell, filled with dissatisfaction.

"Chen Yang, that's not fair of you! You're letting Lao Li go on such a good mission as exploring the immortal traces? He's such a quiet guy, how can he compare to my experience and knowledge? Besides, Ali'er is at the Mountain God Temple, and there's the formation you set up, what could possibly go wrong? Let me go!"

Chen Yang's tone left no room for argument.

"It is precisely because you are experienced and knowledgeable that we need you to oversee the mountain god temple."

Neither Ali nor Uncle Li are as good at handling unexpected situations and complex circumstances as you.

The mountain temple is a crucial stronghold for us, and also Ali's home; it cannot be compromised in the slightest. Uncle Li is quite capable and skilled in stealth and reconnaissance, making him a perfect fit for the Special Administration Bureau's operations.

The situation at the Immortal Realm is unclear, with various forces involved; it might not all be a good thing, and could even be fraught with danger. Your efforts to protect our home are the greatest support you can offer me.”

There was a few seconds of silence on the other end of the phone, followed by Gu Jinghui's reluctant sigh.

"Sigh... alright, alright, you have a point. I'll be the gatekeeper one more time, old man."

But Chen Yang, you better remember this: if you ever manage to get your hands on any ancient sword techniques, lost elixir formulas, or some rare and precious treasures, don't forget to save a copy for me! Don't just think about making a fortune for yourself!

Chen Yang chuckled.

"Don't worry, I won't forget you. If I find anything good, I'll definitely bring it back for you."

"That's more like it."

Gu Jinghui muttered something to himself.

"Then I'll go find Lao Li right now and have him set off immediately to meet up with you. Send me your exact location."

"it is good."

Chen Yang hung up the phone and sent the location of the Special Administration Bureau headquarters to Gu Jinghui.

Immediately afterwards, he dialed Liu Yu's number.

Liu Yu answered quickly, her voice carrying a hint of concern.

"Sect Leader? You've arrived at the Special Administration Bureau? Did everything go smoothly? Did you encounter any trouble?"

"We arrived a long time ago, and everything went smoothly."

Chen Yang said quickly.

"However, the situation has changed somewhat. The Special Administration Bureau has basically the same information as us, and may even have more details. The basis for cooperation is still there, but we need to demonstrate more value."

Liu Yu pondered for a moment.

"As expected."

After all, they are official institutions, and their resources and channels are wider than ours.

So, what's next...?

"There is a new urgent mission."

Chen Yang interrupted her.

"Multiple signs of divine intervention have appeared simultaneously in the Qinling Mountains, attracting various forces, including members of the 'Heavenly Dao Alliance' and 'Dark Star.' The Special Administration Bureau has formed an action team, led by Minister Jiang He, and invited us to participate. I accepted."

"A miracle?"

Liu Yu's voice froze.

"Multiple locations simultaneously? This... is indeed unusual. Sect Leader, I will immediately lead men to meet you!"

"Ah."

Chen Yang responded.

“Select a few alert, capable, and highly skilled elders or elite disciples. The number doesn't need to be large, but they must be reliable. We will meet at the third helipad on the west side of the Special Administration Bureau headquarters in one hour. Remember, this trip may be dangerous, so make sure everyone is prepared.”

"Understood!"

Liu Yu readily agreed.

"I'll make the arrangements right away and I'll be there on time. Sect Leader, please be careful yourself!"

"I will."

Chen Yang gave a few more reminders about safety and confidentiality before ending the call.

Not long after I put down my phone, I heard a slightly noisy sound of footsteps and familiar laughter outside the office.

Soon, Jiang He pushed open the door and entered, followed by several people.

Chen Yang looked up and saw that the person in the lead was tall and burly with a hearty smile on his face; it was Qiuniu.

Su Meng followed behind him, still with that shrewd and capable demeanor, only her eyes were calmer and sharper than before. There was another person who surprised Chen Yang slightly: Xing San.

The Luanfeng sisters, who were originally responsible for guarding the outer base, were not there.

"Chen Shuai! Haha, we meet again!"
"It's only been a few days, but you seem even more imposing than before!"

Qiuniu stepped forward with a big laugh and patted Chen Yang on the shoulder forcefully, his attitude familiar.

Chen Yang also laughed.

"Captain Qiuniu, how have you been?"

"You've looked as radiant as ever since I last saw you."

"How can anyone compare to you, Chen Shuai?"

Qiuniu chuckled.

Su Meng also stepped forward, nodded to Chen Yang, and had a slight smile on her lips.

"Sect Leader Chen, we'll be fighting side by side again this time."

"Miss Su Meng, it's a pleasure to meet you."

Chen Yang returned the greeting, then looked at Xing San beside him with some confusion.

"Brother Xing San? What brings you back? Where are Miss Luan and Miss Feng?"

Xing San remained as taciturn as ever, and upon hearing this, he clasped his hands in a fist salute.

"Sect Leader Chen, Luanfeng and the others are better suited to guard the outer base. Their combined defense will be more effective. Minister Jiang has transferred me back to participate in this operation."

The explanation was concise yet clearly stated. (End of Chapter)