Author: 梦溪石 / Meng Xi Shi
Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/
Chapter 162
Deng Po’s uncle was the son born to Deng Po’s grandfather in his later years. His upbringing was similar to Deng Po’s, and he was even more cherished than Deng Po. Even Deng Po’s father would always yield to his younger brother. A few years ago, Deng Po’s uncle met a girl who was extremely beautiful. After falling in love at first sight, he ardently pursued her for several months. Eventually, he won her heart. However, the Deng family looked down upon the girl because she came from a humble background and had a low educational level. They initially disapproved of the marriage. In the end, it was only after Deng Po’s uncle pleaded, played stubborn, and argued that the grandfather gave his consent. After the Deng family’s compromise, they arranged for the girl to work as an administrator in the local library. This job was relaxed and dignified, and no one could find fault with it, so everyone was happy with the outcome.
Logically speaking, since Deng Po’s uncle had put in so much effort into securing this marriage, the couple should have cherished each other even more after marriage. But the opposite happened. They quarreled frequently. Deng Po’s uncle didn’t settle down after getting married; he continued to frequent entertainment venues, hang out with a group of friends, and even often went on outdoor adventures. He sought a life full of thrills and excitement and never wanted to stop. However, Deng Po’s aunt didn’t like socializing. She hadn’t lived in this social circle since she was young. After marriage, she felt restrained everywhere. It was said that the couple had a big fight after attending a banquet of Deng Po’s uncle’s friends. Deng Po’s uncle felt his wife never tried to fit into his circle, while his aunt felt her husband never understood her, always speaking in a condescending manner typical of the rich.
The incident occurred a week ago.
The couple had a fierce argument in the car. Deng Po’s aunt impulsively opened the door to get out. Even though the car wasn’t moving fast, Deng Po’s uncle had to brake abruptly. This led to another public quarrel, which even escalated to physical violence.
Afterward, the couple went into a cold war. The Deng family initially tried to mediate but later decided to let them be. However, after Deng Po’s uncle had a night of revelry with friends at a billiard club, he was informed by the police in the early hours that his wife was dead.
Deng Po’s aunt was murdered. Her heart was removed, and her head was smashed open, with brain matter flowing out. Strangely, her expression at death was peaceful, even happy, as if she were immersed in a beautiful dream.
What shattered Deng Po’s uncle was that the surveillance outside their home clearly showed that shortly after his wife returned home, he too entered the house, staying for about two hours before leaving.
Facing suspicion of murder, Deng Po’s uncle vehemently denied it. He did have a two- to three-hour gap before going to the club, which he explained was spent driving around the outskirts to calm down after their fight. However, that area was undergoing renovation, and there were no surveillance cameras or witnesses, so his claims couldn’t be verified.
The Deng family was running around for Deng Po’s uncle’s case, and they didn’t dare inform the grandfather, fearing he couldn’t handle the shock. Initially, Deng Po, who was studying abroad, wasn’t informed to prevent distractions. It was only when Deng Po decided to come home earlier that he learned of this incident.
Admittedly, this was a straightforward murder case. There was surveillance footage and undeniable evidence. The couple’s argument outside and even the instance when Deng Po’s uncle impulsively slapped his wife were witnessed by the public and caught on camera. The theory that their argument escalated into murder once they reached home had a clear motive.
However, Deng Po’s uncle never admitted to the murder, and his emotions seemed genuine. So, who would impersonate him and murder his wife?
Deng Po, along with his father and the Deng family’s lawyer, visited his uncle. The more he thought about it, the more things didn’t add up. At that time, Kan Chaosheng asked him for money, and Deng Po recalled an incident on the train. A sudden thought struck him: Could it be that his uncle was also under some illusion and mistakenly killed his aunt, thinking she was a monster?
Kan Chaosheng, although often silly and playful, did have reliable moments. After hearing the full story and thinking for a while, he said, “If someone can indeed use illusions to compel others to kill, then their mastery has reached an incredible level. Unless your uncle offended someone really powerful, it’s unlikely they would go to such extremes to target him.”
Upon hearing this, Deng Po clung to Kan Chaosheng as his last hope. “Future Master, you must save my uncle. I know him well. He might be impulsive, but he would never kill, let alone do something as horrific as gouging out a heart. Could someone be impersonating him to commit the crime? If you help me, I’ll not only become your loyal apprentice, but I’ll also serve as your personal ATM!”
Kan Chaosheng smirked. “Honestly, I just thought you had potential. Maybe I could train you to be as good as Dong Zhi. Don’t think too highly of yourself! The police are on the case. For such a severe crime, they will surely investigate thoroughly.”
Deng Po was close to tears. “The problem is the surveillance footage is crystal clear. Even facial recognition identifies my uncle. His fingerprints were all over the crime scene. While there are doubts, my uncle can’t explain his actions. Future Master, if you help us this time, not only will I become your apprentice, but my whole family will worship you like a bodhisattva. We promise to burn incense for you daily!”
Kan Chaosheng thought for a moment and finally said, “Alright, I’ll come with you and take a look.”
Deng Po was immensely grateful. Though Kan Chaosheng’s appearance and behavior didn’t inspire confidence, Deng Po was desperate. He’d tried lawyers, the police were investigating, and Kan Chaosheng was his last hope.
After Kan Chaosheng had dispatched some matters in Huai’an, he met with Deng Po, who arranged his accommodations and meals. Soon, a scene unfolded where Kan Chaosheng was feasting on a table full of dishes while Deng Po sat next to him, his face full of worry.
“You’ve been hungry for more than three days, haven’t you?” Deng Po remarked, observing Kan Chaosheng’s eating frenzy.
“No, I just had breakfast!” Kan Chaosheng responded, not even looking up from his food, and continued to play his video game.
Deng Po began to doubt his decision to ask for Kan Chaosheng’s assistance. However, after their meal, Kan Chaosheng finally asked Deng Po to detail the case. As Deng Po described the circumstances, especially the mysterious actions of his uncle during the crime, Kan Chaosheng interrupted, “Wait, your uncle doesn’t remember where he was when his wife was murdered?”
Deng Po sighed deeply, recounting his uncle’s claim of being in a daze, driving around the outskirts of the city, and then heading straight to a club.
Kan Chaosheng mused. “Sounds like an excuse someone would make after committing a crime.”
Deng Po looked desperate. “The police think the same, but my uncle refuses to admit to the killing. The only anomaly is that the clothes he was wearing when he came home, as captured on the surveillance, were the same as when he was arrested at the club. If he had committed the crime, there would be blood on his clothes. And why would he let himself be caught on camera outside his house?”
Kan Chaosheng: “Maybe he has two sets of the same clothes. And in the heat of the moment, he might not consider the surveillance cameras.”
Deng Po pleaded, “My mother thinks my uncle might be cursed, and she’s looking for spiritual masters. But I believe in you more than anyone. Please help, Future Master!”
Kan Chaosheng, finishing his food, lazily replied, “Investigation isn’t really my strong suit.” Seeing Deng Po’s disappointed face, he added, “But I can call someone who is skilled in that area.”
Deng Po, frustrated, responded, “Can you not keep me in suspense when you speak? It’s bad for the heart.”
Kan Chaosheng concluded. “Take me to meet your uncle, or at least let me visit the crime scene.”
Deng Po replied, “The crime scene will be sealed off, but I can arrange a meeting with my uncle with our lawyer present.”
Kan Chaosheng nodded. “Let’s see him first, and then decide on the next steps.”
When he returned home, his mother was hosting a distinguished guest. The guest was dressed in a Taoist robe and had an icy expression. He didn’t react upon seeing Deng Po, but his gaze settled on Kan Chaosheng behind Deng Po, almost fixating on him.
Deng Po’s mother didn’t notice this peculiarity. Seeing that Deng Po had brought a child home, she asked in surprise, “Is this your friend’s child?”
Instead of answering, Deng Po asked, “Mom, are you going to visit Uncle?”
His mother was reminded by his question. “Right, I was just about to invite Master Chang to see him. Oh, I forgot to introduce him to you. This Master Chang is highly skilled. I had to ask a favor from a friend to invite him over. Quickly, greet him properly!”
Deng Po observed that the man looked to be in his twenties, about his age, and seemed somewhat unusual. He found it hard to address him as “Master”.
If Kan Chaosheng knew that Deng Po’s mother had invited someone else for help, he would have been furious on any other day. But now, he was staring intently at Master Chang. Anyone familiar with him would notice that his hair was standing on end, clearly in a defensive and soon-to-be aggressive stance. This was a natural response when a creature senses a threat.
Deng Po finally noticed the intense gaze between the two, neither uttering a word. “Do you… know each other?”
Master Chang said coldly, “I don’t associate with demons.”
Kan Chaosheng instantly got angry. “Which mountain did you come from?”
Master Chang coldly snorted, “Being able to transform these days is quite commendable. However, your cultivation is lacking, and you’re young. Don’t you have any elders at home to guide you? How dare you brazenly parade around? Leave immediately, and I might pretend I didn’t see you. But if you cause any trouble, don’t blame me for turning you into snake soup!”
Nowadays, there were many frauds in the world, but Kan Chaosheng didn’t expect the Deng family to be so lucky as to actually find a formidable figure. He was offended by Master Chang’s words, especially when his true form was revealed. He was furious and lunged at Master Chang.
He was swift, but the man surnamed Chang was even faster. Before Kan Chaosheng could get close, Master Chang’s sword was already out of its sheath, its tip pointed at Kan Chaosheng’s forehead. In a fit of rage, Kan Chaosheng transformed into his true form, revealing a massive serpent head, roaring, and exuding a powerful aura.
Master Chang exclaimed, “Oh, it’s a young Jiao!”
He thought it was a python.
Although both were considered long serpentines, the difference was vast. A jiao was referred to as a “half-dragon” and was just one step away from becoming a true dragon.
Kan Chaosheng retorted. “’Young’ my ass. I’m much older than you, and I’ll beat you until you call me grandpa!”
Master Chang scoffed, “Typical lack of discipline. I’ve had snake soup before, but never Jiao soup. Time for a taste!”
As the two continued to clash, the room was in chaos. Thankfully, they managed not to break any furniture. Deng Po’s mother was terrified. If not for Deng Po’s support, she would’ve collapsed.
“Xiao Po, what have you brought into our house?!” her voice quivered.
Deng Po replied, “Mom, it’s just an illusion! This is the master I invited to help Uncle!”
“What illusion!” Master Chang sneered. “His true form is a demon!”
It was considered highly disrespectful to reveal a spirit’s true form in public. Kan Chaosheng was furious and attacked even more aggressively. However, he had grown lazy and complacent over the years, and to his shock, he wasn’t able to overpower the unknown man. At one point, he was even captured.
Holding him by the neck, Master Chang immobilized Kan Chaosheng, who could only shout in anger, “You bastard, at least tell me your name!”
“Why should I?” Master Chang then turned to Deng Po. “Did he do anything to you?”
Deng Po, in disbelief, replied, “No, no. I met him on the train. We even caught human traffickers together. I invited him to help. Can you please let him go?”
Master Chang stared at Kan Chaosheng. “So, since you’ve transformed, you haven’t done anything bad?”
“Damn your big-headed ghost!” Kan Chaosheng valued his pride the most. Never had he been handled and held onto like this before. He was on the verge of exploding in anger. If it weren’t for the fact that he couldn’t speak human language after turning into a cat, he would have already transformed and broken free from the person’s grip. “Release Grandpa quickly, or I’ll get someone to deal with you!”
Master Chang remained emotionless. “Bad attitude, no remorse. Guess I won’t let you go.”
He took out a talisman from his pocket, ready to stick it onto Kan Chaosheng, when unexpectedly, the phone in Kan Chaosheng’s pocket rang. Mr. Chang paused, reaching into Kan Chaosheng’s pocket to retrieve the phone.
“Didn’t your mother teach you not to touch other people’s things?!” Kan Chaosheng shouted angrily.
“Dong Zhi?” Mr. Chang glanced at the caller ID. “Your friend? What kind of creature is he?”
Kan Chaosheng’s spirit lifted. “You’d better let me go now, or you’ll regret it!”
After saying this, he suddenly found it oddly familiar. Isn’t this what villains in novels often say?
Deng Po, who once admired Kan Chaosheng, now looked doubtful. Deng’s mother was even more frightened. Seeing this, Kan Chaosheng felt utterly humiliated, fuming, and wanting to bite surname Chang on the spot.
That bastard didn’t hang up the phone but instead pressed the answer and speakerphone buttons.
“Hey, Chaosheng, you just messaged me, asking about my situation. My master told me to come over. Where are you? Give me a location, and I’ll come straight after I land.”
Hearing this familiar voice, Kan Chaosheng broke into tears. “Dong Zhi! Some bastard captured me, and he wants to eat me!”
He began to cry so heartbreakingly that even Deng Po’s mother, previously scared, couldn’t bear it. “Master, maybe you got it wrong. He’s just a kid. Why not let him go first?”
Chang Qing coldly responded, “If I let him go, he’ll run.”
The person on the phone clearly heard the commotion and asked worriedly, “Chaosheng? Where are you? What’s happening?”
Chang Qing asked, “Who are you to him?”
Dong Zhi was astonished. Even though Kan Chaosheng was willful, he was a 500-year-old Jiao. To be captured meant the opponent was formidable. Dong Zhi’s tone became more serious. “He’s my friend. Did he owe you money or ate your snacks? I can repay you. Let’s talk it out.”
Kan Chaosheng’s tears turned to anger. “Do you see me as such a glutton in your eyes?”
Dong Zhi replied, “…That’s not the point, is it?”
Kan Chaosheng challenged, “Then what is your point?”
Chang Qing interjected, “Sorry to interrupt your catch-up. Until I can verify he’s not dangerous, I’ll hold onto this creature. If you’re also a creature, I’d advise you not to come.”
Dong Zhi quickly responded, “What’s your name? Kan Chaosheng is from the Special Administration Bureau. He’s never done anything wrong. Please show mercy.”
Chang Qing frowned. “What’s the Special Administration Bureau?”
Dong Zhi was both amused and surprised. He hadn’t expected Kan Chaosheng to encounter a Daoist exorcist from legends who was hostile towards all demons and spirits. Dong Zhi had assumed that such extreme and stubborn individuals no longer existed in modern cities, especially in an era where even disciples from esteemed sects like Mount Longhu had joined the Special Administration Bureau.
However, since the other party didn’t even recognize the Special Administration Bureau, it was likely he was a disciple of some reclusive hermit. While there were very few people dedicated to secluded cultivation these days, they weren’t entirely extinct. As Dong Zhi climbed the ranks within the Special Administration Bureau, he now had the authority to slowly access some of the more general classified files. Within one of the bureau’s systems, records of practitioners who continue to live in seclusion without any specific school or lineage were stored. Yet, there were some individuals who hadn’t registered with the bureau. Perhaps they were hidden in plain sight within the city, or they might have spent their entire lives in remote mountain forests.
“Let me come over and explain. Please release Kan Chaosheng. I should be there by evening,” Dong Zhi said, checking his watch.
Chang Qing replied indifferently, “We’ll talk when you arrive.”
“Wait!” Kan Chaosheng shouted frantically. “Don’t hang up! I have more to say!”
He yelled at Dong Zhi, “Just come alone! Don’t tell the boss, or my salary will be docked!”
Dong Zhi: …How impressive that you can still think of this even after you’ve been subdued.
Chang Qing hung up the phone and slapped Kan Chaosheng on the back of his neck. Using some unknown technique, Kan Chaosheng felt as if half of his strength was sapped away, his whole body tingling and powerless. Forget using any magic; even his legs became limp and wobbly, making him walk as if he were drunk.
He was both shocked and enraged, roaring, “How dare you treat me like this! Our boss will not let you off!”
“Let him come then,” Chang Qing responded nonchalantly, not taking him seriously nor paying any mind to Dong Zhi over the phone. Turning to Deng Po’s mother, he said, “Let’s go and see this Deng Bin you spoke of.”
Deng Po’s mother timidly glanced at Kan Chaosheng. Chang Qing reassured her, “Don’t worry, he’s restrained by me now. He can’t do anything. I’ll keep him close to prevent him from escaping. Once his friend arrives, I’ll deal with them both.”
However, Deng Po seemed somewhat sympathetic. “Master, can we release him? He doesn’t seem like a bad person.”
Chang Qing replied, “Good and evil aren’t discerned by appearance. It’s precisely because he adopts the form of a child that he can easily deceive you all.”
Kan Chaosheng shot him a fierce glare, tears forming in his eyes, thinking, ‘Damn it, Dong Zhi, hurry up and come!’
Back when he first met Dong Zhi on the train, Kan Chaosheng saw him as a frail and ordinary human and scoffed at his desire to become an apprentice and join the Special Administration Bureau. Little did he know that the tables would turn and he’d one day hope for Dong Zhi to come to his rescue, much like a princess awaiting her knight.
Why wasn’t he waiting for Long Shen? Because if Long Shen were to come, while the problem might be resolved, his own fate would also be dire. Between being tortured by this bastard and being rescued by the boss, Kan Chaosheng shivered, realizing he’d rather face the former.
For humans, life might be expendable, but money isn’t.
The same goes for a jiao.
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