Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Note: These are mini extras that the author has written posted separately on JJ. She intermittently updates them, usually on Valentine’s Day and other holidays for her CPs. The translation will be updated when the author updates her blog. You can get updates when translations are updated in my Discord server. Below is a ton of dog food.

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2025/29/8

Everyone’s Summer Cool-Down Routines

Another Qixi has come around, and our married couples are celebrating again.

Here are their little everyday tricks for beating the heat—

“A business trip in the middle of summer?” Yin Ren dabbed at nonexistent tears. “Minister Fu, do you have any humanity?”

Fu Xingchuan watched the performance, unmoved. “None.”

“But they do have a famous local braised-meat specialty. It was featured in a documentary.”

Yin Ren: “Got it.”

The next day they took a high-speed train straight to the mission location.

The site was an old, ill-omened house with unusually rich evil qi nearby. Yin Ren found a snack stall close by and blew some evil qi to cool himself down, feeling so comfortable that every pore opened up.

The hunched stall owner slowly simmered the signature braise. The rich aroma lifted the lid, threaded into Yin Ren’s nose, and turned into a steaming sense of bliss.

“More of this kind of assignment would be great,” Yin Ren sighed.

“Mm,” Zhong Chengshuo nodded. “I’ve never been out here. There’s plenty of new samples to collect.”

As the sun neared the horizon, the stall owner rolled his cloudy eyes and stared at them with ill intent.

“Meat so fragrant, meat so fine,” he set down two bowls and cackled, “fragrant as little boys and girls… you a piece, me a piece, tomorrow we’ll go snatch the babies…”

“Truly fragrant. No wonder it made the documentary,” Yin Ren praised.

Stall owner: “……”

“Elder, that phrasing invites misunderstanding.” Zhong Chengshuo prodded a chunk with his chopsticks. “This isn’t human flesh. Human fat is yellow.”

Stall owner: “…………”

“Really,” Yin Ren blinked. “I never paid it much mind before, but I suppose it is yellow.”

Stall owner: “?”

“This is very fresh pork, lightly seasoned—quite healthy,” Zhong Chengshuo announced solemnly.

“Shame I like heavy flavors.” Yin Ren casually tugged a sooty lump off the stall owner’s brow, dropping it into his own pot. “Mm, that’s about right.”

Zhong Chengshou, completely used to it by now, leisurely ladled a spoon of clear broth.

The stall owner seemed to jolt awake from a dream. He looked them over, startled, and said a bit sheepishly, “My head gets foggy… Did you two pay?”

“We did,” Yin Ren said. “Elder, why set up your stall here?”

“It’s nice and cool,” the old man beamed.

“Tomorrow it’ll get warmer nearby,” Zhong Chengshuo said seriously. “Foot traffic isn’t great here. Try the market.”

“Alright!”

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2025/5/20

Everyone’s Birthday Cakes

Congrats to the couple from “Help” on moving into the Married Zone ☆(/ω＼)

This year’s 520 (May 20) mini-extra: couples celebrate their birthdays! It’s a perfect chance to compile everyone’s birthdays~

Yin Ren: January 20th

Source: A gift from Zhong Chengshuo. (29th day of the 12th lunar month, Renyin year; Great Cold, 2023)

Cake: [Deluxe Wedding Cake]

Yin Ren has a very odd “hatchling imprinting” fixation (?). Even Zhong Chengshuo feels it is a bit inappropriate to order a wedding cake every single year.

So Comrade Xiao Zhong carefully studied recipes from home and abroad, threw himself into it with a lab-experiment spirit, and produced a near-perfect multi-tier cake—he even crafted fondant toppers modeled on Yin Ren and himself.

※ Yin Ren always polishes off the entire cake and also casts a spell to preserve those fondant figures. The “husband-and-husband” figurines wear different outfits every year, but they are forever smiling.

Zhong Chengshuo: April 20

Source: A normal (?) birthday. (Grain Rain, 2022)

Cake: [Apple Cake]

A recipe Yin Ren hunted down. It uses lots of apples yet needs no excessive oil or sugar making it very healthy and up to Zhong Chengshuo’s wellness standards.

He even took time off to study at home, carefully comparing apple varieties, and made it especially tasty. It became one of Yin Ren’s few signature dishes.

※ When it’s time to share the cake, Yin Ren especially likes to feed Zhong Chengshuo a few bites by hand. After so many years, he can finally share sweet apples—and sweet happiness—with that black rabbit and do it with a smile.

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2025/2/16

What to Do When You’re Stuck Together

Suddenly stuck together—what should you do?

A belated Valentine’s Day mini joke (?) story has arrived! Time for some sweet, sticky fluff ☆

Q: What should you do if you wake up in the morning and find your hand stuck to your partner’s?

A: Take leave from work first.

Zhong Chengshuo truthfully reported the abnormal incident and even submitted a leave request for Yin Ren while he was at it—

The Ghost King himself discovered their hands were stuck together, groggily cheered, “No work today!” then promptly fell back asleep, throwing a leg over Zhong Chengshuo’s waist for good measure.

Zhong Chengshuo melancholically swung his sole remaining free hand and made a decision that defied common health advice. He picked up his phone and used his left hand to order delivery.

According to his research, waking Yin Ren with noise didn’t work well; kisses or the smell of food were far more effective. However, kissing only happened when they were heading to work together. Now that he was stuck in bed too, there was no chance Yin Ren would get up voluntarily.

Only the food offensive remained.

Zhong Chengshuo, well aware of Yin Ren’s tastes, ordered from three different restaurants to ensure their breakfast was aromatic and appetizing. Sure enough, the moment the delivery driver arrived, Yin Ren instantly snapped awake.

“Fresh soy milk.” He sniffed the air and sat up happily. “And tofu pudding, stuffed pancakes, and egg burgers.”

Before the driver even knocked, Yin Ren had already flashed to the door.

Wake-up mission: perfectly accomplished. Zhong Chengshuo pushed up his glasses in satisfaction.

After washing up, the two of them moved to the dining table like conjoined twins, inspecting this inexplicable hand-holding anomaly. By now, both of them understood their own physical conditions well enough to know the situation wasn’t dangerous.

However, Shian was very concerned about this bizarre leave excuse, and Fu Xingchuan’s questions were practically flooding their chat window.

“This feels kind of fun.”

Yin Ren decisively grew another arm, completely unbothered by the anomaly. “Why not make up a reason and send it over? Minister Fu seems really spooked.”

Zhong Chengshuo shook his head. “There’s no need to lie to him.”

“No no no, it’s not lying—it’s reassurance.”

Yin Ren waved his chopsticks. “‘Although we don’t understand it, it seems harmless’—that kind of explanation is too vague. Minister Fu will definitely get anxious. We should consider his emotional state. If it’s still unresolved in a couple days, then we can have a serious talk.”

He was familiar with anomalies.

Not understanding the cause wasn’t a big deal—if it wasn’t harmful, just let it be. It might disappear on its own. He had seen this sort of thing countless times. Nature is just that magical.

And this anomaly… was actually kind of cute!

A rare chance to skip work openly—why not go on a hand-in-hand date around the city?

While Zhong Chengshuo replied dutifully to messages, Yin Ren was already efficiently searching for nearby events.

The rest of the day went just as he’d hoped. Their hands didn’t separate, but it didn’t hinder them either. The two of them went to the largest museum in Haigu and joyfully spent the whole day exploring.

Ever since Zhong Chengshuo sent that message to Fu Xingchuan, Yin Ren’s phone had stopped receiving new alerts. Well… Comrade Xiao Zhong was quite reliable after all.

Late at night when they returned home, Yin Ren stuffed a huge bag of snacks into the fridge and, for the first time in a while, opened the work group chat.

[Final Fruit: Yin Ren and I both think it’s fine.]

[Pray For More Talismans: No no no, your case is special—even if it’s fine, it still deserves attention!]

[Pray For More Talismans]: Do you guys have any theories?]

[Final Fruit: [sigh]]

[Final Fruit: Yin Ren and I are the same species. If we interpret ‘stuck together’ as a biological phenomenon, then considering common scenarios, this could be a form of same-species mating.]

[Pray For More Talismans]: ?]

[Final Fruit: The specific situation still needs further observation.]

[Pray For More Talismans: ???]

Yin Ren: “……”

Yin Ren closed his eyes, trying his hardest to erase that memory.

Wow, the next workday just became even less appealing.

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2024/8/13

Everyone’s Favorite Sports

A belated short story for Qixi Festival, with a little Olympic commemoration (*/ω＼*)

Yin Ren: [Tree Climbing]

The Ghost King has a special fondness for tree climbing. 

In the past, when the forests were dense, he loved climbing to the highest tree, lazily basking in the sun. Even with countless seals on his body, Yin Ren could still feel the warmth of the sun, like an embrace—though at that time, he didn’t really understand what a true embrace was. 

After settling in Haigu, Yin Ren had to give up this hobby. The reason is simple—climbing the greenery on both sides of the city is too undignified, and climbing trees in the park isn’t quite appropriate either. Only when he goes on mountain trips with Zhong Chengshuo can Yin Ren happily climb trees again. 

Fortunately, he has the perfect substitute for his daily life. 

When he sleeps, Yin Ren likes to drape himself entirely over Zhong Chengshuo. He always gets a warm hug, just like basking in the sun

Zhong Chengshuo: [Shooting] 

Rather than saying Zhong Chengshuo likes shooting, it’s more accurate to say he’s good at it. 

Shooting is an excellent way to exercise. Controlling your breathing, heart rate, and muscles, and even considering wind speed—every detail must be taken into account. Attacking a moving target requires calculating its trajectory. To Zhong Chengshuo, this sport is equivalent to a mathematical problem in motion. 

After marrying Yin Ren, Zhong Chengshuo rarely practices shooting anymore. He prefers to spend time with Yin Ren, and he’s found a good substitute. 

When Yin Ren is asleep, Zhong Chengshuo can catch the unconscious flapping of his wings—controlling his breathing, heart rate, and muscles still requires precision. 

Perfect.

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2024/6/1

Childhood Hairstyles

I suddenly wondered what everyone’s hairstyle was like when they were kids, so I’m sharing this on Children’s Day— 

Consider it a little addition to the setting (〃ω〃)

Yin Ren: [Extremely Long Hair]

Considering that long hair had many uses, young Yin Ren paid great attention to hair care. Besides hunting, eating, and sleeping, he had limited entertainment, so playing with his hair was a good way to pass the time.

Zhong Chengshuo: [Standard Student Cut]

Since both of his parents were police officers, young Comrade Zhong had the most standard short haircut for a good student. His hair grew a bit longer while he was in school, but the length was limited, making him look like a well-behaved child.

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2024/5/20

Everyone’s Favorite Fruits

This year’s Married Couple Day on 520* has arrived, so let’s write about everyone’s favorite fruits ☆

*The number 520 when pronounced in Chinese is very similar to [wǒ ài nǐ] (我爱你) I love you. Due to this, it has become a day in China called “Internet Valentine’s Day”.

Congratulations to the couple from [Full Server First Kill] for entering the happy married zone (*/ω＼*)

Yin Ren: [Apple]

There were wild apples in the mountains too, mostly small and sour, pecked at by birds and full of pits, so Yin Ren rarely ate them. The villagers of Yin Village weren’t wealthy, and any palatable fruits had long been dug up and cultivated by the villagers. The remaining fruits were either bitter or poisonous, with a fishy, astringent taste.

But the villagers would offer him sweet and delicious apples, the aroma of which was absent in mountain fruits and less cloying than cold pastries. Yin Ren always saved them for last.

After waking up in the modern world, Yin Ren was surprised to find that apples could be prepared in so many ways—apple chips, candied apples, apple soda, apple jam desserts, baked apples, and more.

The Ghost King, who was used to eating raw and cold food, now enjoyed them immensely.

※ “Apples have a lively, festive feel!” Yin Ren said, crunching on a candied apple.

Zhong Chengshuo: [Apple]

That was the first bite of food Zhong Chengshuo tasted in the human world. Strictly speaking, his action couldn’t be called eating, nor was his sense of taste normal. But this act of taking food into his body through a crack, coupled with the food’s strange flavor, deeply shocked the bizarre black rabbit.

Later, the words spoken unintentionally by the Great Celestial Master were taken as a wish. Ever since Zhong Chengshuo started living on his own, his fridge never lacked fresh apples, and there was always a bright red one on his table.

Zhong Chengshuo attributed his preference for apples to a kind of “imprinting”—in more ways than one.

Apples are the best fruit. Zhong Chengshuo firmly believed this—fresh apples and apple juice were his favorite fruit-flavored foods. It wasn’t until he started living with Yin Ren that he began trying other forms of apples.

※ Zhong Chengshuo: “Apples are good for your health.”

~~~

“Ready?” Zhong Chengshuo asked seriously.

“Ready.” Yin Ren touched the blindfold covering his eyes, his tone equally serious.

Zhong Chengshuo took a deep breath and picked up the small plate in front of him—the dining table was neatly lined with sixteen small round plates, each holding a perfectly sliced piece of apple with a toothpick.

“Sample number one.” Zhong Chengshuo speared an apple slice and carefully brought it to Yin Ren’s mouth.

The latter bit down, quickly chewed, and swallowed. “Seven points. Next.”

“Sample number two.” Zhong Chengshuo swiftly recorded the score and picked up the second plate.

“Eight points.”

“Sample number three.”

“Ugh, this one’s tasteless… two points, no more!”

…

“Why don’t you try them yourself?” After the tasting, Yin Ren asked, biting into an apple slice.

“I’m not good at tasting, and the flavors would linger in my mouth, making it hard for me to judge objectively,” Zhong Chengshuo replied as he organized the score sheet. “You can completely absorb them without interference.”

“But the flavors I like might not be to your taste.” Yin Ren mumbled, “I don’t want you to go out of your way to accommodate me.”

“No, what you give me is always the best,” Zhong Chengshuo stated firmly.

“Always the best.”

Yin Ren blinked and broke into a bright smile.

“So are you.” He bit into a piece of fruit and pressed it against his lover’s lips.

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2024/2/14

Couple’s Pajama Party

Valentine’s Day, of course, calls for a grand pajama reveal (?

And favorite intimate acts (???

~Yin Ren~

[Self-made red gauze clothing] formed from Yin Ren’s own power that’s almost imperceptible. Not that the Ghost King wants to display his majesty, he just refuses to change clothes twice a day.

※ So, does this count as naked sleeping? Yin Ren ponders.

~Zhong Chengshuo~

[Blue-striped pajama set] The ultimate standard pure cotton striped pajamas, with even more standard round buttons. Zhong Chengshuo has seven sets, changing daily. The fabric emits a clean laundry detergent scent.

[Boxer briefs] so ordinary it brings tears to your eyes. It’s surprisingly comfortable since it’s made of cotton. Comrade Xiao Zhong carefully checked all fabric parameters.

[Nightcap] A classic pointed nightcap with a pom-pom.

※ Zhong Youde once brought home an illustrated fairy tale book. After reading, the young Zhong Chengshuo firmly believed a nightcap was an essential sleep accessory.

Whether awake or asleep, skin contact enhances a person’s sense of happiness.

If possible, Zhong Chengshuo would try every means to grab a warm wing orb to keep with him. If possible, Yin Ren would try every means to stuff a warm winged orb over. Shian employees always find a suspicious black line between the two.

“Don’t bother,” Minister Fu Xingchuan tiredly says. “That’s the red thread of their marriage. Just pretend it’s so red it turned black.”

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 2024/1/1

Magical Summoning Abilities

New Year’s Mysterious Magic☆ Couple Summoning Technique~10 Seconds Guaranteed~ The effect is magical, comparable to spatial teleportation!

Yin Ren’s magic: Release a winged orb near Zhong Chengshuo.

Magic effect: The orb will be accurately captured by Zhong Chengshuo, firmly embraced.

※ “I captured him,” Yin Ren confidently states.

Zhong Chengshuo’s magic: Place a plate of freshly fried chicken in a ventilated area of the house.

Magic effect: Within three seconds, Yin Ren appears next to the fried chicken.

※ For some reason, the health expert Comrade Xiao Zhong’s cooking skills for fried chicken keeps getting better and better.

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2023/10/31

Got A Pumpkin

~Yin Ren’s Pumpkin~

“Zhong Ge, let’s go out and play!” Yin Ren suggested joyfully. “Many people are dressing up strangely today. We can’t lose out.”

He got a particularly large pumpkin, hollowed it out meticulously, then stuffed Yellow Millet inside. The Great Celestial Master reverted to his usual red attire and sat on the pumpkin. The Yellow Millet pumpkin began to sway and flew up.

“Look, it can even glow manually!”

Yin Ren flew around the room, patting the pumpkin. Yellow Millet let out a puff and a light appeared inside the pumpkin.

“Very impressive,” Zhong Chengshuo said seriously. “Will Shian be okay with this?”

“Don’t worry, everyone will think it’s a magic prop.”

“Well…um…can I sit on it?”

“Of course!”

※: Zhong Chengshuo was on edge, ready to answer questions. But to his surprise, everyone indeed thought it was a magic prop.

~Zhong Chengshuo’s Pumpkin~

Zhong Chengshuo stared at the pumpkin on the table for almost ten minutes.

Yin Ren’s costume was all set, but he had no ideas. Comrade Xiao Zhong had always lacked experience in “going against the norm”.

Yin Ren said it should be weird… Yin Ren said it should be a bit scary… The theme was pumpkin…

That evening when they went out, Zhong Chengshuo was dressed as usual, but with an orange-red pumpkin the size of a fist on his head.

Facing Yin Ren’s puzzled gaze, Zhong Chengshuo firmly stated, “I put the pumpkin on my head, then control my muscles and movements, so it won’t fall…weird, scary, and the theme is pumpkin.”

Yin Ren reached out and adjusted the pumpkin slightly, then suddenly kissed Zhong Chengshuo’s cheek. The latter blushed slightly causing his body to move a bit, but his head remained as steady as if nailed in the air.

Yin Ren: “…Pfft!”

Yin Ren: “Trust me, you’ll be a hit!”

※: It was crowded at night. With Zhong Chengshuo’s odd maneuver of keeping his head stationary while dodging with his body, he successfully made a dozen people scream.

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2023/10/04

Late Mid-Autumn Festival? National Day? Short joke~(*/ω＼*)

Everyone’s Belongings

Yin Ren’s personal items:

◆ Shian Employee ID: A very important identification card, the sad label of a wage worker.

※ Even more importantly, wearing it grants access to Shian’s cafeteria!

◆ Dog Thing: Serving both as a mobile phone and pseudo-AI, Yin Ren sometimes delegates some trivial text work to it.

※ Even though it’s a metaphysical life form with research value, it acts just like ChatGPT…

◆ Gold ring: A wedding ring and undoubtedly Yin Ren’s most treasured item over the past few thousand years.

※ He secretly takes it off to admire it during idle times and occasionally flaunts it to some lost spirits.

~Zhong Chengshuo’s personal items~

◆ Shian Employee ID: A very important identity proof, a waiver for certain research activities.

※ Yin Ren secretly drew a black rabbit wearing glasses on the back of Zhong Chengshuo’s ID.

◆ Red baseball cap: When wandering in unfamiliar environments and eating out with Yin Ren, sometimes it’s necessary to cover Yin Ren’s overly conspicuous face.

※ It’s strange, Yin Ren looks like a trendy store model when wearing it, but when he wears it, he’s often teased by Huang Jin for resembling a psychotic killer. Maybe it’s because of the look in his eyes?

◆ Gold ring: A wedding ring, a testament to a blissful marriage.

※ Every morning when Zhong Chengshuo wakes up, he can’t help but gaze at the ring for a few seconds. He cherishes the warm feeling it brings.

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2023/08/22

Qixi Scheduled! Perfect to rate everyone’s culinary skills~☆

~Yin Ren’s Culinary Skills~

Overall rating: ★☆

Strengths: Edible and not bad.

Weaknesses: Loves to explore new things… uh, you have to give an ancient evil(?) time to learn…

※ Zhong Chengshuo: “Don’t add too much oyster sauce and soy sauce at the same time… Ah, don’t add more salt…”

~Zhong Chengshuo’s Culinary Skills~

Overall rating: ★★★☆

Strengths: Excellent learning ability, inherited the true essence of Father Zhong’s kitchen.

Weaknesses: Overly focuses on health, often at the expense of flavor.

※ “I will definitely corrupt him!” Yin Ren is very determined.

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2023/05/30

Indulging in “Tears of the Kingdom” led to postponement of the mini… A small corner of everyone’s daily life!

Two sets of changeable clothes, a laptop, a power bank, disinfectants, energy bars, an umbrella, an emergency light, a compass, climbing rope…

Zhong Chengshuo stood by the bed, repeatedly confirming the items in his suitcase while ticking them off on his phone’s memo. Yin Ren had just taken a hot shower and was walking out, drying his hair with a towel. Seeing the increasingly absurd content of the luggage, he remained silent, unusually, for a couple of seconds.

“Zhong Ge, we’re just going to the neighboring city.”

“I know,” Zhong Chengshuo answered seriously.

“And it’s not a business trip, or a battle. We’re just going on vacation.”

“I know.”

“There’s currently no threat to us. If there’s any emergency, we can instantly go straight home using the gaps.”

“I know.” Zhong Chengshuo’s tone remained unchanged.

“So why is there climbing rope?” Yin Ren tried to maintain his smile. They were merely planning to attend a music festival in another city. But by Zhong Chengshuo’s packing, it seemed like they were embarking on a dangerous mission in the wilderness.

“This is my first time actively deciding to travel.”

“So?”

“It’s not for sampling, not a mission taken by ‘King Yama’, and not for Shian’s work,” Zhong Chengshuo elaborated. “Last time I traveled short distance, an authority provided clear advice. This time, there’s none.”

“So, you’re packing based on the last trip?”

“Last time was a spring outing organized by my elementary school.” Zhong Chengshuo might as well have written “Are you sure?” on his face.

Yin Ren: “…Let’s just forget about that.”

“You haven’t been to a music festival either. It’s a completely new experience, so we need to be fully prepared.”

Yin Ren picked up the hefty climbing rope and weighed it in his hand. “Hmm, let’s look at it from a different perspective.”

Zhong Chengshuo paused in his packing.

“You’ve played those games where you’re limited in starting equipment, right?” Yin Ren said persuasively. “Consider this a challenge, an adventure with limited items. It’s so exciting! This is truly a new experience.”

Even if they were managing their own luggage, Yin Ren didn’t want to see such absurd items in his sight. For heaven’s sake, they were going to have fun!

Zhong Chengshuo furrowed his brows, clearly pondering the suggestion. After about half a minute, he nodded, and began to repack.

Problem solved. Yin Ren quickly pecked Zhong Chengshuo’s cheek, sighing in relief. “I’ll go blow dry my hair.”

The next day, Yin Ren stared in disbelief at the bulging suitcase before him.

“Didn’t we agree yesterday…”

“I indeed didn’t bring the climbing rope,” Zhong Chengshuo earnestly clarified.

“……”

Yin Ren slowly covered his face.

‘This must be what they call the “marital adjustment phase”,’ he thought.

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<<< || Table of Contents ||

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 249: Daily Exercise

Yin Ren looked at Zhong Chengshuo’s face with great interest.

Zhong Chengshuo’s features remained the same. He currently wasn’t wearing glasses, dressed in a long black robe, and his temporary long hair was loosely tied at the back of his head. At a glance, he didn’t look like a science post but rather like some wicked creature dug out of a coffin.

It had been twelve years since the Divine Descent, but Zhong Chengshuo’s physical age hadn’t continued to increase. According to Zhong Chengshuo himself, this was probably related to his awakened “God” ability. In the first few years, it was manageable, but when they had to go on missions, the two of them had to undergo certain disguises—

Beside Zhong Chengshuo, who had lost his glasses, Yin Ren’s long hair was transformed into short hair, and his red eyes were covered with a layer of brown. This person now looked like an eighteen- or nineteen-year-old, dressed in a red pullover, exuding a youthful vibe that shouldn’t exist.

Their appearances hadn’t changed much, and they couldn’t fool familiar faces. However, it was more than enough for a joint investigation with Shian.

Just a few days ago, Yandu had initiated a collaboration request.

A highly dangerous group of evil beings had appeared in a cave on the outskirts of Yandu. The interior of the cave was complex, with numerous branching paths, and they didn’t have enough experts to handle it. Coincidentally, the Haigu Branch was dealing with a major case and desperately wished they had eight hands each. The department heads couldn’t leave, so the two troublemakers became the best choice.

At this moment, the two troublemakers were sitting in a corner of the cave, taking a rest. It didn’t take long for two young special agents to approach them.

“This is our first time participating in a joint investigation. We haven’t seen you before, Linnan… No, the Haigu Branch, right?” The girl with short hair asked curiously.

“Are you a corpse servant? The corpse is well-preserved, just like a living person.” A bald young man pointed to Zhong Chengshuo.

Comrade Xiao Zhong had always had an expressionless face, but without his glasses to buffer it, his black eyes became somewhat intimidating. Sitting properly in the corner, he did seem lifeless.

Yin Ren suppressed his smile and coughed. Zhong Chengshuo slowly turned his head and extended a stiff hand towards the bald man. The bald man shook hands in response and exclaimed, “Can a corpse shake hands? …Holy shit, it’s warm?!”

He stumbled in place, almost falling.

“We are indeed from the Haigu Branch. Call me Xiao Yin, and this is my partner, Zhong Ge,” Yin Ren introduced seriously. “He has a rather special sense of humor.”

Zhong Chengshuo nodded in agreement with a serious expression.

The bald man rubbed the goosebumps on his body. “Oh… by the way, it’s my first time working with the Haigu Branch. I haven’t seen the department head in person yet.”

“Something happened, and there isn’t enough manpower,” Yin Ren said truthfully.

“We are partners from the Yandu Branch; our names and ranks are here.” The girl with short hair patted her chest, where her name tag was. “It’s a pity. I heard that the minister of the Haigu Branch is particularly formidable. I haven’t seen them in person yet.”

“Which minister? I remember Haigu has two senior departments,” the bald man interjected.

“It must be Director Huang from the Emergency Management Department. I remember the Special Management Department of Haigu isn’t allowed to go on missions… but I’ve heard that the two ministers of the Special Management Department are very strong, and they’re both women.” The girl with short hair showed a fascinated expression.

“Yes, they are indeed strong.”

Yin Ren recalled Lu Xiaohe roaring at him and Ge Tingting constantly challenging him to practice—ever since the higher-ups at Haigu found out about his identity, only the members of Special Investigation Unit 9 dared to treat him like that.

“Speaking of which, it would be great if Director Huang could come,” the girl with short hair sighed. “Xiao Yin, have you met him? I heard from a friend at Haigu that Director Huang is handsome and has a special melancholic aura.”

Yin Ren: “…He is quite melancholic.” Probably because he hadn’t submitted his resignation for ten years.

During private gatherings of the former Special Investigation Unit 9, Huang Jin would start crying when he drank too much.

He would cry about wanting to provide the best support for his wife and needing to earn money. Then he would cry about wanting to give his wife and child a top-tier life, and he still needed to earn money. As time passed, the tearful Huang Jin became a minister, but he never managed to resign successfully—his “God summoning” ability was so rare that the higher-ups arranged an elite detective as his partner for the science post just to deal with his file issues.

At this rate, Minister Huang would definitely be working until retirement.

“Well, I thought I could see Minister Huang this time…”

“Isn’t our Minister Fu good enough?” The bald man glanced at his own partner. “That Huang is almost forty, while Minister Fu is in his early thirties. It’s obvious who has the advantage.”

“Not the same.” The girl with short hair vigorously shook her head. “Our Minister Fu has too strong of an aura, as if he had seen the world. He feels like an old man in his eighties or nineties, just one step away from reaching enlightenment.”

Zhong Chengshuo, who was reading a book on his phone, lifted his head at the sound, and a trace of astonishment flashed across his face.

“People can change so much?” he whispered in a low voice.

His impression of Fu Tianyi was still stuck on the arrogant youth who liked to pick fights.

“It’s probably some kind of post-traumatic stress disorder,” Yin Ren casually remarked. “We caused him quite a lot of trauma.”

“Really?”

“Just a guess…”

The two of them hadn’t finished whispering when the cave suddenly trembled. Rocks fell from the ceiling, creating a clattering sound and kicking up countless dust. Bone-chilling cold air blew out from the depths of the cave, and mist crawled along the ground, gradually engulfing the feet of the people present.

In the dark corners at both ends of the cave, hundreds of red lights lit up one by one. The fierce spirits almost materialized, causing a suffocating sensation even from a far distance, as if they were being swallowed by a swamp.

“What’s going on?! With so few people assigned, isn’t this route relatively safe?” The bald man’s face turned pale.

“They’re targeting the team with fewer people first. Maybe it’s highly intelligent evil spirits,” the girl with short hair said with a serious expression as she tapped her earpiece. “Hey, Minister, anomaly in corridor 31! Requesting backup!”

“What’s the situation?” Fu Tianyi’s voice came from the other end of the earpiece.

“There are confirmed to be over a hundred high-level evil spirits surrounding us. In the team, there are 8 people from Yandu, 2 from Haigu, and 2 from Linnan. Requesting backup!”

There was silence on the other end of the earpiece.

“Minister?”

“You just said there are two people from Haigu?” Fu Tianyi’s voice carried a strange numbness.

“Yes, Xiao Yin and Xiao Zhong…”

“Then it’s fine.” Fu Tianyi dryly laughed. “Take care of it yourselves. Even if I die, nothing will happen to you guys.”

“What—” Before the girl with short hair could finish her sentence, her body swayed.

In an instant, only two out of the twelve members of the team were left standing. The others lay scattered on the ground in various positions, sound asleep. Only the girl with short hair managed to prop herself up, panting heavily. “What… happened… Why did you suddenly… attack your teammates…”

“Yandu indeed has talented individuals. Ordinary spells can’t knock them out.” Crouching down, Yin Ren patted the girl with short hair on the head. “You must be a high-level science post, with a promising future.”

“You guys…”

Yin Ren smiled faintly; his brown eyes fading to crimson. “Anyway, that kid Fu Tianyi will handle the aftermath. Just don’t run around.”

The girl with short hair lifted her eyelids and stared intently at the two “traitors”.

Yin Ren didn’t say anything more. He took out an old-fashioned mobile phone and entered something on the screen. The next moment, two figures clad in red and white robes, exuding a dense aura of blood, appeared beside him. They were wrapped in black chains, floating in mid-air.

The girl with short hair swallowed nervously. She knew how exceptional she was, and if she, as an outstanding science post, could see them, then they must be extremely dangerous fierce spirits with physical forms.

And those two young specters, covered in multiple layers of chains, were clearly…

“Xiang Jiang, Xiang Hai. Protect all living beings and do not fail.” Yin Ren’s voice turned extremely cold. A wave of pressure surged through the cave, causing even the distant swarm of evil spirits to retreat.

“Yes,” one of the ghosts responded indifferently.

Yin Ren snorted and turned around.

“Zhong Ge, let’s see who can catch more,” he said to Zhong Chengshuo, his eyes shining with a playful smile, as if the previous pressure was just an illusion.

“I’ll take this side,” Zhong Chengshuo said while holding a dagger in his right hand and the Karma Lantern in his left. His long hair slid down, almost covering half of his face, and he fumbled for two seconds, which was rare for him.

“Then I’ll choose this side. The loser cleans up.” Yin Ren tugged on the Yellow Millet pendant hanging from his phone and winked at Zhong Chengshuo. “Get ready—begin!”

The two of them turned into two blurry figures and instantly merged into the darkness.

The girl with short hair: “…”

The following scene was more like a one-sided slaughter than a battle.

In less than two seconds, the murmurs of the evil spirits turned into screams, and neither group of evil beings dared to approach the center. With the flying flesh and blood of the evil spirits, they fled in opposite directions, leaving trails of urine and excrement in their wake. The two individuals completely disregarded their partner’s combat techniques and chased after them alone. The nearby mist dissipated rapidly, and all she could see were the red lights growing further and further away.

What’s going on? Weren’t they partners? Can science posts really charge into the frontline like this? …She couldn’t understand. Which one of them was the science post!

The cave quickly returned to tranquility. Near the unconscious teammates, there were only two ghosts floating silently.

She suddenly felt that it would be better to faint. This must all be an illusion. She had seen Minister Fu personally in battle, and these two guys had surpassed the capabilities of humans.

Unfortunately, before the girl with short hair could faint, those two things, which she didn’t know what they were, returned.

“518,” Yin Ren announced with excitement.

He lazily leaned on Yellow Millet; his clothes without a speck of dirt.

“517.” Zhong Chengshuo gestured.

“That’s not all. You definitely hid some samples,”

Zhong Chengshuo grabbed the tips of his hair and averted his gaze.

“Quickly tell me where you hid them. I’ll cover for you later.” Yin Ren squeezed Zhong Chengshuo’s face with both hands. “Fu Tianyi isn’t like Fu Xingchuan. He’s very indecisive in this aspect. With so many people here, we need to be prepared in advance.”

“Um, we shouldn’t break the rules together… I can handle it myself…” Zhong Chengshuo struggled to speak.

“I’ve talked to Fu Xingchuan. There won’t be a problem. Shian won’t be able to confiscate them.” Yin Ren increased the strength in his hands.

“Fu Xingchuan is traveling abroad. There’s a time difference…”

“I’ll wake him up during the interval.”

Ah, it really was an illusion. The girl with short hair revealed a weak smile and successfully fainted.

In any case, the atmosphere gradually calmed down, and it was safe here.

And it would remain safe for a long time.

---

The author has something to say:

As usual, a small reminder: I don’t welcome comments from pirated readers who only buy the “Extra” or “Specific Chapters”. In that case, I will randomly issue warnings depending on the situation. Writing a long novel isn’t easy, so if you like it, please support the official version, where you get thousands of words for only 30 cents on the app.

——————

Thank you all for your support and understanding along the way—

This book turned out to be longer than planned, and there were three major real-life upheavals during the later stages, with battles at work and the double impact of COVID-19, which somewhat affected my writing state. There’s no other way; next time, I’ll just have to save more drafts (^ρ^)/

Actually, each book is an attempt at something new, and this one made me realize my shortcomings, so I will continue to work hard!

——————

The next book, “Full Server First Kill”, is a pseudo MMORPG-style Western fantasy adventure and leveling story. It is tentatively planned to start in the first half of the year~

Pre-orders are available in the column, so if you’re interested, you can start collecting them—

Once again, thank you for supporting the official version! See you in the next book ☆

---

Kinky Thoughts:

This marks the end of the novel.

I hope you enjoyed it. If you did, please consider supporting the author by buying the raws. You can used Google Chrome with their auto translate and this guide on how to buy novels on jjwxc. Remember, only with your (financial) support can artists continue to produce more great works, especially works like this that are extremely long, well thought out, and well written. It really doesn’t cost much.

I’m quite excited to read Nian Zhong’s latest work (a throwback to Stray with western fantasy)… so I picked it up. You can read it here: Full Server First Kill.

Once again, thank you everyone for your comments, encouragement, help with my translations, and ko-fi donations.

If you have become a fan of Nian Zhong, do check out her other works that I have worked on. You won’t be disappointed.

Finally I do have one last treat. This is an extra extra from the author’s blog where she writes mini updates for her characters (usually on special holidays). It’s not officially on jjwxc, but I’ve decided to translate it. She usually updates this yearly, so check back each year on those special days for a new update.

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<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 248: Possibilities

Near A University, in a certain café by the window, Zhong Chengshuo was sitting there blankly.

He had planned to finish his paper by 5 p.m. and go on a date with Yin Ren nearby. However, before 4 p.m., he had already achieved his goal. Faced with this unexpected situation, Zhong Chengshuo felt a bit lost—Yin Ren was currently busy checking on Sun Qi’an’s condition and definitely didn’t have time to chat with him.

Surrounded by chattering customers, Zhong Chengshuo deeply experienced the feeling of “boredom”.

Outside the window, a scoop of ice cream fell onto the pavement, and a group of ants systematically explored the treasure. Zhong Chengshuo obediently leaned on the table, fixating his dark eyes on the ants.

The army of ants made its journey smoothly, except for a minor incident—soon after, a fly leisurely landed on the ice cream cone.

Zhong Chengshuo frowned.

The elder of the Zhong family had taught him that “life is precious”, but Zhong Chengshuo didn’t particularly like flies and mosquitoes that spread diseases. He extended his hand, and the tips of his five fingers lightly touched the glass as darkness surged within his pupils.

Fear dominated.

The fly kicked its legs, and its body rolled off the ice cream cone.

Zhong Chengshuo withdrew his hand and took a sip of juice. Recently, he had become more skilled in using his abilities. Shian had specifically calculated it; with his current power and the help of the Karma Lantern, he could destroy Haigu within two minutes. Under excessive fear, everyone would choose to end their own lives at the first opportunity.

Zhong Chengshuo had no thoughts on the matter.

He had no special liking or disliking towards humans, especially since Yin Ren had a special preference for humans—to the point of harboring the power of corruption while tirelessly protecting them.

He didn’t want to oppose his lover.

Furthermore, using emotions to drive people to self-destruction, Qi Xin, as “Sorrow”, could do that too. But Qi Xin couldn’t force flies and mosquitoes to death, nor could she help exterminate cockroaches in the neighborhood. For lower-level creatures, the most primal “Fear” was effective.

Thinking of this, Zhong Chengshuo’s blank expression became smug without showing it. He carefully savored and tasted this emotion, then glanced at the time—there was still half an hour before Yin Ren arrived.

The flow of time had undoubtedly slowed down, Zhong Chengshuo solemnly judged.

In the next moment, accompanied by screeching brakes, a heavy wave of fear erupted nearby.

Zhong Chengshuo looked out of the window and happened to see the scene of an accident. A dirty stray dog had been hit by a car and was lying on the roadside, bleeding. The driver confirmed that it wasn’t a pet and drove away without hesitation.

The little dog lay quietly on the roadside, and the deep red blood spread slowly on the ground. The viscous blood covered its dirty and matted fur, and the trembling body in the center of the bloodstain wouldn’t stop.

A few passersby stopped to look for a while and then walked away. The stray dog’s bones were broken, and its organs were exposed. No professional knowledge of zoology was needed to know that its life was coming to an end.

The smell of fear grew stronger.

Zhong Chengshuo stared at the puddle of blood for a moment. A few seconds later, he closed his laptop and stood up.

……

The stray dog lay motionless on the roadside.

It wanted to move, but its emaciated body wouldn’t respond at all. Everything became unfamiliar and cold. Besides panting and trembling, it couldn’t do anything. Intense pain exploded within its body, and countless monstrous creatures swept past it. It had never been so terrified before.

Suddenly, a massive shadow stopped beside it. The newcomer carried a refreshing scent of vegetation, completely devoid of the stench of sweat.

Human? …There seemed to be something not quite right, but it didn’t have the strength to distinguish. Anyway, humans weren’t good creatures. In its terror, the stray dog bared its teeth and let out a weak growl.

The person bent down.

The stray dog could feel the person’s gaze, as well as the slight movement of the shadow and the scent—it wanted to bite him with all its might the moment he touched it.

“Whether it’s humans or other creatures, their reactions are similar when they’re dying,” the person said.

The stray dog trembled even more.

“I’ve encountered someone who looks a lot like you before. Like you, I didn’t know his name… He was my enemy, abandoned by his comrades, destined to die.”

The voice continued steadily.

“That was the first time I used this ability for something else.”

With these words, a hand gently landed on the stray dog’s head.

“…This time, I’ll do better.”

It should bite him hard, the stray dog struggled to turn its thoughts. Strangely, it seemed to have suddenly forgotten the reason for attacking.

The intense pain remained, the coldness remained, and the smell of blood was everywhere, as if nothing had changed. But the despair and fear disappeared without a trace, leaving only a gentle calmness.

Perhaps this was the safety and tranquility that it had never experienced in its entire life.

Its vision gradually faded, but its body no longer trembled. The hand on its forehead was incredibly warm. With great effort, the stray dog pondered for a moment, mustered its last bit of strength, and slowly closed its eyes.

“Good night,” the human softly said.

……

Zhong Chengshuo packed up the remaining food, bought a paper box and cloth from the café, and cleaned up the stray dog’s body. The cloth covered the blood-soaked body, and it lay peacefully as if sleeping. Zhong Chengshuo placed the paper box in the cleanest corner of the trash bin, and after a moment of contemplation, he took out a small cake and gently placed it next to the body.

At this moment, Zhong Chengshuo was very certain of two things.

First, Yin Ren was surprisingly softhearted and definitely wouldn’t mind one missing piece of cake. Second… he indeed preferred using his power like this rather than destroying the world.

Just like Yin Ren.

It was now 4:53 p.m., and he couldn’t be late for his date.

“Goodbye,” Zhong Chengshuo bid farewell to the small body.

On the other side, at Haigu Municipal Hospital.

“Well, there’s no problem. But if you experience any abnormal emotions, be sure to contact us immediately.”

Yin Ren stood up from the couch and stretched lazily.

“Love’s” seal in Sun Qi’an’s brain was still stable. However, better to be safe than sorry, Yin Ren would still give Dr. Sun a monthly check-up.

“What do you mean by abnormal emotions?” Sun Qi’an neatly combed her hair.

“You’ll feel it yourself more quickly.” Yin Ren extended his index finger and tapped Sun Qi’an’s brow.

He released the power of “Love” into Sun Qi’an’s brain, which lasted for about five seconds. Within those five seconds, Dr. Sun’s eyes went from confusion to madness, and then back to confusion. After removing his finger, her gaze was filled with shock.

“That’s probably how it feels.” Yin Ren coughed twice in a seemingly serious manner.

“It’s really scary.”

“Isn’t it?”

“It’s terrifying. It’s supposed to be a strong love… but I always feel like I want to destroy something, and my mind can’t function properly.” Dr. Sun rubbed her temples in pain.

“I totally understand. You must remember this feeling.” Thinking about his own history of being affected, Yin Ren’s eyes almost teared up. Even after all this time, Zhong Chengshuo’s voice recordings related to Innocent Thoughts still remained.

Despite wearing an innocent face, that kid was quite frightening in certain aspects.

Dr. Sun’s face turned pale as she sat on the couch, poured herself half a cup of tea, and finally caught her breath. “Have you also experienced these things? Without going crazy?”

“… ” Yin Ren shifted his gaze to the corner of the wall, feeling guilty.

Fortunately, Dr. Sun didn’t think too much about it and drank another half cup of tea, still trembling slightly. “No wonder you’re a master in Shian. If someone as skilled as you went crazy, the level of destruction would be outrageous. Does Shian have any special countermeasures?”

Yin Ren’s expression froze for a moment.

At present, he and Zhong Chengshuo could be considered Shian’s “countermeasures”, but there weren’t any before. At that time, Shian was only entangled with Sunken Society, and their research on the Other Side had been at a standstill. If…

If on that rainy night, he hadn’t met Zhong Chengshuo.

He wouldn’t have joined Shian so quickly, and it would have been impossible for fate to push him forward. In that state of ignorance, once the Elementals discovered him, he wouldn’t have been able to resist. A lone person, manipulated by emotions, would become a weapon for Sunken Society… No, the Other Side.

Shian would be caught off guard and combined with Zhong Chengshuo, who couldn’t delve deeper into the research on the Other Side, they would absolutely have no ability to resist.

“Haha.” Yin Ren suddenly burst into laughter.

Dr. Sun poured herself another cup of tea. “What are you laughing at?”

“Nothing.” Yin Ren rubbed his face.

It was just that he realized he had almost become the world-destroying Demon King.

Humming a tune, the Great Demon King left and casually bought a bouquet of flowers from a nearby shop.

Sunlight poured through the glass into the flower shop, and the vibrant colors overflowed with vitality, making one’s eyes sore. The colorful bouquet was wrapped in colorful wrapping paper, with water droplets rolling on the petals. Unfortunately, this delicate atmosphere was soon destroyed—

Yin Ren had the stewed rice box prepared by Zhong elders in his hand, as well as the brand of sandwiches that Zhong Chengshuo liked. The bouquet was squeezed in between a few bags, looking particularly pitiful.

“Hello? I understand, Mom, it’s alright, I’ll deliver it soon… Yes, yes, we’ll eat together.” Yin Ren floated in the sky, having a serious conversation. “I remember. I’ll definitely bring back the lunch box.”

After finishing the call, he turned into a trail of shadows and disappeared into the air.

It was 5:57 p.m.

Yin Ren landed silently and immediately saw Zhong Chengshuo in front of the café. He had a laptop bag in his left hand and a pastry in his right hand with eyes filled with clear anticipation.

As the sun set, there was a bustling crowd around Zhong Chengshuo. People passed by him, heading in different directions. Zhong Chengshuo stood among the crowd, and that sense of detachment had disappeared without him noticing.

He looked like one among the countless beings.

Yin Ren stepped out of the alley, unable to hide the smile on his face. He stopped by Zhong Chengshuo’s side and sniffed lightly. “You smell like blood.”

“Mm…” Zhong Chengshuo began to carefully organize his words.

“But it’s ‘good blood.'” Yin Ren couldn’t help but free one hand and ruffle the other’s soft hair. “Although I don’t know what you did, you did a good job. Let me praise you first.”

“Really?”

“I’ll make it up tenfold if I’m lying.” Yin Ren shook the lunch box. “Our parents made something special for us again. Let’s have dinner first and talk while eating.”

Zhong Chengshuo skillfully extended his hand and pulled out the bouquet from a pile of plastic bags. He held the flowers against his chest and a smile appeared on his lips.

“Okay.” Zhong Chengshuo took two steps forward, leaning close to Yin Ren.

“Don’t get so close. You might crush the sandwiches—”

“I like it crushed.”

---

The author has something to say:

World destroying Demon King A + Demon King B, it’s so great that they’re getting along peacefully! (×

There’s only one more chapter for the extras, and it will be completed in the next few days! Thank you all for waiting so patiently—

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 247: Hunting

Ma Yan, a biology Ph.D student at A University.

In two days, there would be an academic exchange conference at D University. As one of the two representatives from A University, Ma Yan was quite nervous—

D University was located in a remote area, close to several ancient tombs. Recently, a new burial site was discovered, and strange occurrences have been happening since then. Based on Ma Yan’s experience, those rumors weren’t just idle talk—he had interned at a special department in Shian and knew some inside information.

As the bus departure time approached, Ma Yan took off his backpack. While swinging the backpack, he accidentally hit the person next to him.

“Sorry Zhong Chengshuo,” Ma Yan apologized as he put the backpack on his lap.

“It’s okay.” Zhong Chengshuo nodded without turning his gaze.

Indeed, he’s such an odd person. 

Zhong Chengshuo was considered the most highly regarded student in the department. It was said that he wandered outside for a few years before returning to pursue his Ph.D. He rented a place near A University and didn’t participate in any student group activities. This guy didn’t even eat in the cafeteria—he always went back to his rented house for meals. Ma Yan wondered what he was so dedicated to.

Currently, there were three seats in a row, but Zhong Chengshuo had left the one by the window empty.

“Waiting for someone?” Ma Yan looked at the time, trying to start a conversation.

Zhong Chengshuo: “Yes, a family member.”

Ma Yan took a deep breath. This conference allowed attendees to bring their family members. But this person Zhong Chengshuo… Wasn’t that ring just for fun? Who would choose such a strange wedding ring?

Considering his behavior of running back to his rented house, Ma Yan solemnly pondered. “Taking care of a relative’s children?”

“My partner wants to come along.” Zhong Chengshuo’s voice became slightly louder. He finally turned his head, and his black, hollow eyes fixated on Ma Yan.

Bachelor Ma Yan: “…” He’s not happy.

Speaking of which, Zhong Chengshuo was quite good-looking. Even if he was an eccentric person, there would definitely be girls who liked him. Ma Yan wondered what kind of person his partner would be like…

“Zhong Ge!” A figure swiftly jumped onto the bus. The person was wearing a black shirt and a red duckbill cap. Their long hair was tied up in a ponytail. Above the mask, a pair of red eyes formed a smiling curve.

The person strode over to Ma Yan. “Brother, excuse me.”

They took the empty seat by the window, wearing the same ring on their ring finger as Zhong Chengshuo.

So, it really is a wedding ring?!

Ma Yan is shocked. “Wait, a guy?”

Zhong Chengshuo nodded. His expression remained unchanged, but the atmosphere around him seemed to have brightened by 10%. The person sitting down removed their mask and took a deep breath.

After seeing the other person’s appearance, Ma Yan was speechless. The more beautiful a “person” was, the more dangerous they were, as Ma Yan learned during his internship. His mental tension instantly escalated.

“Zhong Chengshuo’s classmate? I’m Yin Ren.” Yin Ren extends his hand in a straightforward manner.

“Ma Yan.” Ma Yan shook their hand, trembling.

Fortunately, Yin Ren only exchanged a simple greeting. Not long after getting on the bus, he yawned loudly and immediately rested his head on Zhong Chengshuo’s shoulder, falling asleep.

……

D University was in a remote location, and the nearby shops and hotels were at a small-town level. Most of the conference participants stayed on campus, but Zhong Chengshuo, with his family member, had booked a room in a hotel.

After some contemplation, Ma Yan chose to book a room at the same hotel. Just in case there were real problems with the nearby burial site or if Zhong Chengshuo’s boyfriend was indeed suspicious, it would be easier to contact Shian.

The first two days went smoothly.

Zhong Chengshuo acted as usual, while his partner, Mr. Yin, simply wandered around various street food stalls nearby. Ma Yan felt relieved, thinking that maybe he was overreacting.

Until midnight of the third day.

In the cheerful background music of the game, Ma Yan poked at his phone while playing a video on his computer. He was going back tomorrow, so there wasn’t much to worry about.

Swish.

Amidst the music and dialogue, a strange sound suddenly appeared.

Swish, swish.

Vague noises came from beneath the floor, sounding like digging in the soil. Ma Yan turned off the game and video, but the strange sound became even clearer.

Swish, swish, swish. The floor was trembling.

Ma Yan’s room was on the third floor, with an empty guest room below. There was a simple layer of reinforced concrete in between, which couldn’t explain these digging-like noises.

Stay calm, it’s a minor thing. There must be some scientific explanation behind it. Ma Yan tightened his face.

Outside, the night had grown dark, and no lights were visible. In the silence, apart from the sound of digging, there were eerie whispers. Ma Yan walked a few circles in the room, making sure it wasn’t his own illusion or dream.

Ma Yan couldn’t decide whether to go outside or not. The occupancy rate here was low, and he was the only one on the third floor. Moving around casually might be even more dangerous.

Swish, swish. A faint, foul odor filled the air.

The digging and whispers were getting closer. Ma Yan anxiously stared at the source of the sound. In the hotel’s dim yellow light, a small clump of soil faintly appeared on the tiled floor.

Ma Yan swallowed his saliva, shifting his gaze towards the door—

Knock, knock, knock!

“Ma Yan, want to have a drink together?” Right at that moment, Yin Ren’s voice sounded from outside the door.

The digging sound abruptly stopped, and even the soil on the floor seemed to retreat at a rapid pace, as if trying to escape.

Ma Yan: “…?”

“We came to find you.” Outside the door, Yin Ren continued to call out. “Zhong Ge can’t drink, and it’s boring if it’s just me. It’s livelier with more people.”

Ma Yan approached the peephole. In the dim corridor, Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo were indeed standing there. The problem was that he barely knew Zhong Chengshuo, and it was his first time meeting Yin Ren. It was suspicious for them to suddenly come from another floor to drink in the middle of the night.

Taking a step back, something about his room felt off, and he couldn’t involve innocent classmates in this.

Ma Yan cleared his throat. “I’m about to sleep. Let’s meet up after I return to the city.”

Swish.

Just as Ma Yan finished speaking, there was a cautious sound beneath the floor.

Yin Ren: “Ah, what a pity…”

In an instant, the hotel’s door slammed onto the ground. Yin Ren stood at the entrance with a smile, still in the motion of pushing the door.

“Sorry, the door isn’t sturdy.” Yin Ren’s eyes glowed red in the darkness.

Sturdy my ass! Ma Yan jumped up and grabbed his phone. Something was definitely off with this guy, and he had to report it to Shian.

Zhong Chengshuo was holding a strange-looking lantern as he approached. “Should we show it to him?”

“No need to erase his memory. Fu Tianyi just sent news that this person has good potential.” Yin Ren murmured to himself, tilting his head. “The science post values cognition, right? If his cognition collapses here, he won’t be of much use.”

“I understand.” Zhong Chengshuo nodded solemnly.

With a terrified gaze, Ma Yan watched the two of them chattering. His heart almost exploded. What on earth was going on with these two? Could it be that Zhong Chengshuo was being controlled by a monster? It had already been so long; why hadn’t Shian’s people arrived yet?

In Ma Yan’s frightened gaze, Yin Ren casually walked to the center of the room and knocked on the floor. “Why not keep digging?”

The room fell into complete silence.

“You were having so much fun digging just now. You were only one step away from singing the ‘most glorious labor’.” Yin Ren gently raised his right hand, then struck the floor. Strangely, the tiles showed no damage, and Yin Ren’s hand sank into the ground as if it were sinking into mud, straight into the floor.

In an instant, he pulled his hand, and a desiccated, skeletal arm emerged.

Below the arm, there were brownish-black bones and intertwined tree roots that seemed inseparable from each other. Yin Ren pulled it out like he was pulling a water hose, while Zhong Chengshuo carefully arranged the part that was pulled out, meticulously stacking it against the wall.

For some reason, the monster being pulled out trembled slightly, without any resistance. When it was being arranged in a circle by Yin Ren, it even cooperated by adjusting its position.

This is insane. Ma Yan slid slowly to the corner of the wall.

The monster itself was one thing, but these two people… He couldn’t come up with any explanation.

After pulling for about twenty minutes, the monster beneath the floor was finally completely pulled out. It occupied one-third of the room and was piled up like stacked tires. The monster wriggled, and the dust on its body fell to the ground.

Zhong Chengshuo examined the monster for a while, and a look of joy appeared on his face. Ma Yan had seen that expression before; every time his father caught a fish, he had the same satisfied look.

“Corpse intestine from an ancient tomb. The corpses have different years, most of them are sacrificial, and a few should be tomb raiders or…” Yin Ren wiped his hands with a wet towel. “Or people who were recently attacked.”

He pointed to the fresh part of the monster’s body, where it looked like tender shoots growing from withered tree branches.

“Thank you for the reminder.” Zhong Chengshuo took out a sample bag and a small knife from his pocket.

“Wait! You can’t just…” Ma Yan exclaimed.

The flesh and blood of the monster might have unknown effects, and it was strictly forbidden for ordinary people to privately obtain and study it under Shian’s regulations. With the situation happening right in front of him, Ma Yan couldn’t ignore it.

Zhong Chengshuo slowly turned his head, and Ma Yan was so scared that he covered his head. However, Zhong Chengshuo didn’t say a word, and his eyes just showed a hint of grievance.

Yin Ren raised a smile and spoke deliberately slowly. “We caught it, so naturally, we have the right to deal with it.”

Before he could finish his sentence, the monster let out a faint whimper and trembled, causing the floor to shake. If it weren’t for how disgusting the thing was, Ma Yan might have felt sorry for it.

“And guess why Shian hasn’t arrived yet?” Yin Ren’s smile became even brighter.

……

Before leaving the room, Yin Ren even left two cans of beer for Ma Yan. If he hadn’t left behind nearly half of the room filled with monsters, Ma Yan might have been even more grateful. The stimulated monster obediently remained still, playing dead alongside Ma Yan.

The good news was that five minutes after those two guys left, Shian’s personnel arrived at the door.

“Ancient tomb intestine, more than a thousand years old.” Fu Tianyi’s face showed no expression.

“Mr. Fu!”

Ma Yan instantly felt relieved. This was a top-notch expert from the Yandu branch, but he seemed particularly listless and in a bad mood.

Fu Tianyi absentmindedly picked up a can of beer and took a few sips.

“I’ll arrange for you to change rooms later, and Shian will handle this thing.” After putting down the can, Fu Tianyi sent a message while talking. “Not being shaken by seeing this thing, you’ve done well.”

Ma Yan had nothing to say. He actually wanted to be shaken, but unfortunately, the monster gave in too quickly, and his emotions hadn’t had time to brew.

Thinking about it, Ma Yan hesitated for a moment. “Two people took…”

“It’s safe here.” Fu Tianyi interrupted loudly. “No issues at all.”

“Just now, two people…”

“No issues at all.”

“Just now—”

“No issues at all!” Fu Tianyi drank half a can of beer, and a sense of despair appeared on his face.

Ma Yan: “…Alright, since the Fu family says there are no issues, I have no position to question further.”

……

One week later.

[BOOS Supreme Devil Emperor: Lao Jiang is selling ancient tomb corpse hearts!]

[Xinxin Dog Kennel: Where can you even get corpse hearts now? They’ve all been plucked clean.]

[BOOS Supreme Devil Emperor: That new burial site.]

[Lao Zhang Pancake Stall 028: The corpse heart is guarded by corpse intestines. Corpse intestines with high cultivation will devour people on their own. They are extremely dangerous.]

[No Head: That place has been around for thousands of years; it’s tough. Dealing with a five-hundred-year-old corpse intestines would require about a hundred people.]

[BOOS Supreme Devil Emperor: It must be King Yama.]

[No Head: Here we go again.]

[BOOS Supreme Devil Emperor: Didn’t he get a partner? It must be them.]

[yamagald: Guess?]

“Don’t worry too much. ‘King Yama’ won’t expose himself,” Zhong Chengshuo said as he embraced Yin Ren from behind, sounding drowsy.

“The ministers probably have an idea in their hearts.” Yin Ren chuckled as he looked at the chat room flooding with messages.

“I haven’t left any evidence.” Zhong Chengshuo’s tone instantly turned serious.

“You don’t need evidence for this kind of thing. It’s not like we’re going to court.” Yin Ren playfully ran his hand through his partner’s hair. “Trust me. Even if they do find evidence, they’ll pretend they didn’t see it.”

After all, having King Yama as a convenient scapegoat was much more convenient than admitting that “there’s someone in Shian who can’t be controlled”.

“I don’t understand.”

“I’ll teach you slowly in the future.”

“…Alright.”

---

The author has something to say:

King Yama, a sham company (…

Two people making extra money with their salaries, laboring to become wealthy!

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 246: Two Years Later

Two years later, at the peak of summer, in Haigu.

[Recently, the police launched a comprehensive investigation into the Coral Reef Group. Numerous unauthorized modifications were discovered in the underground spaces of the company building. After confirmation, it was revealed that the Coral Reef Group is linked to several criminal cases…]

[The Coral Reef Group is one of the longest-standing companies in Haigu, with business operations spanning across media, daily necessities, and various other sectors. Through the investigation, it has been determined that the actual controller behind the group is a person surnamed Wei. The police have already arrested him…]

[Next news. In early July, the police successfully dismantled a criminal hideout, and currently, three individuals are on the run…]

“Okay, brother, turn off the TV!” Lu Nana put on her red fedora.

Lu Hui hurriedly complied and turned off the TV with a snap.

After two years of dedicated training, the Lu siblings were about to undergo their employment physical examination at Shian. This time, they felt fully prepared and even walked with a lighter step. Upon reaching Shian’s campus, there was still some time left before the physical examination.

The scenery at Shian’s campus remained the same, except there was now a statue in the center of the fountain.

At first glance, Lu Hui didn’t recognize what it was.

From the silhouette, the statue seemed to depict a person sitting sideways. The figure was carved with light gauze, adorned with chains and simplified talismans. Since the statue was meticulously carved from a single piece of stone, it was entirely black with a somewhat casual design. At a glance, the two couldn’t tell if it was a deity or a modern-style artwork.

The “head” of the stone statue faced the newly expanded juice bar.

Under the scorching sun, the ice cream posters at the juice bar were truly tempting. The Lu siblings exchanged a glance and decided to relax before the physical examination. However, within the shade of the juice bar’s umbrella, there was already a figure.

It was a modestly dressed girl. She tied her hair up in a high ponytail, and her appearance was ordinary, but her appropriate light makeup gave her a certain elegance. When she saw the Lu siblings, who were somewhat sunburned, she politely nodded.

The Lu siblings placed their orders and joined the girl at her table.

“Lu Hui. This is my cousin, Lu Nana,” Lu Hui introduced. “Are you here for the physical examination as well?”

The girl smiled shyly. “Yes.”

Lu Nana’s spirits lifted. “Perfect! Are you a cultivator or…?”

“I’m a physics graduate student from A University, Gao Mengyu.” The girl raised her head. “I’m still studying and preparing for a summer internship.”

Lu Nana exclaimed, “Ah, a science post. The last time we came here, there was also a graduate student from A University. It’s been two years; I wonder what level Mr. Zhong has reached.”

“When we pass the physical examination, we’ll meet familiar faces sooner or later,” Lu Hui said confidently, patting his sister on the back.

“Two years… Mr. Zhong? Zhong Chengshuo?” Gao Mengyu clasped her hands together.

“You know him?”

“Um, he’s pursuing a Ph.D. at A University. I’ve met him before,” Gao Mengyu said.

“What? Zhong Chengshuo went back to school?” Lu Nana was surprised. “A University is in Yandu. Could he have transferred to the Yandu branch?”

Lu Hui adjusted his vest solemnly. “We’ll ask familiar faces when we pass the physical examination.”

“…That’s enough, brother!”

……

“The Lu siblings have made significant progress.” Li Nian put down his thermos. “Gao Mengyu has a special relationship with the Lonely. After she graduates, she can immediately become a regular employee. Besides these three, there are seven new recruits… The situation looks good this year.”

Fu Xingchuan lay face down on the sofa, silent.

Li Nian: “Are you finally dead?”

“Unfortunately, not yet.” Fu Xingchuan replied with a weak voice. “It’s been two years, Lao Li. We finally caught a glimpse of Sunken Society, but now there are so many problems… The Coral Reef lawyers are so annoying, and Wei Huaqian, that bastard…”

Li Nian sneered. “They have legitimate industries, so this was always going to be a prolonged battle. I remember someone being confident and saying, leave everything to the Emergency Management Department.”

“At that time, it seemed like the Other Side was more important…” Minister Fu’s voice sounded increasingly guilty.

“Sunken Society is bad enough, and the Xiang Jiang and Xiang Hai case from back then haven’t made any progress at all. Now someone has taken this case upon themselves.”

“We lack clues. There’s nothing we can do…” Minister Fu’s voice was feeble. “That’s why I need my old partner’s help.”

“Tsk.”

After delivering a fatal blow with a tongue click, Li Nian didn’t continue to mentally attack Fu Xingchuan.

Indeed, after the battle on the Other Side, most of Shian’s manpower was devoted to research and support for the Other Side. For this reason, Shian established the “Special Management Department”, with two troublesome experts appointed as ministers.

As one of the troublesome experts, Zhong Chengshuo’s work was considered responsible.

Every time there was an operation on the Other Side, that guy would always bring back a pile of research materials. Within a year after the war ended, Zhong Chengshuo had published several papers, such as “An Analysis of the Formation Principle and Food Chain of the Other Side” and “Research on Ancient Microscopic Elemental Fusion Organisms Based on the Other Side’s Ecology”. His science rank skyrocketed, far surpassing that of ordinary science posts. As an “employee of Fear” still in service, he had the right time, place, and people on his side, exploring depths beyond the reach of ordinary science posts.

In order to gain more knowledge, he returned to A University to pursue a doctorate.

Working remotely brought many inconveniences. Considering that Zhong Chengshuo, as a “God”, could travel to the Other Side and take a shortcut home, Shian turned a blind eye.

As for the more dangerous one of the troublesome experts, Yin Ren’s situation was unusually peaceful.

Yin Ren’s strength was truly exceptional, and he had almost detached himself from ordinary missions, solely responsible for the ecological management of the Other Side. To be honest, the top level of Shian still maintained some vigilance towards this “God” with immeasurable power. To appease Yin Ren, Shian would allocate a special sum of money each year to give him a bonus.

And after two years, it turned out that the people of Shian were just overthinking. Aside from using the Other Side as a springboard to visit Yandu and play with Zhong Chengshuo, Yin Ren never used his “god-level” power.

The ecological balance on the Other Side didn’t need daily intervention. This guy basically came to Shian to punch in, have meals, and besides that, he secretly played games and watched dramas in the office or found a sofa to sleep on, truly embodying the essence of “slacking off”.

For this reason, Lu Xiaohe didn’t spare him any reprimands—Miss Lu might be the least polite person towards Yin Ren in all of Shian.

Like now.

“If you won’t write the report, at least show up for work?!” Lu Xiaohe’s shout came from the corridor—the office of the Special Management Department was next to the Emergency Management Department, so they were close.

“I’ll work later! I’m accumulating energy right now,” Yin Ren retorted on the spot. “Besides, I made an appointment with my teammates. I can’t go back on my word. It’s important.”

“Teammates? Those student teammates of yours who are still on summer vacation?” Lu Xiaohe gritted her teeth. “What are we, Minister Yin Ren?”

“You can’t say that. We’re all good teammates,” Yin Ren murmured.

“Zhong Chengshuo, you should manage him… You’re playing too?!”

“He’s missing a healer,” Zhong Chengshuo calmly replied.

“Don’t spoil him, alright?!” Lu Xiaohe’s voice carried a touch of sorrow.

“Ge Tingting and Huang Jin are both working hard. You can distribute their efforts more evenly for us mentally,” Yin Ren said solemnly. “Look, I’m different from you all. I’m clearly past the age of retirement…”

“……”

“How about you join us, Xiaohe Jie? We can also invite Xiao Ge and Da Huang on the weekend. They’re always on field assignments, so it’s just the three of us in the office, which is quite empty…”

“I’m not playing. I’m going to read a book,” Lu Xiaohe said softly. Was it really empty? She suddenly felt a bit redundant. The golden light on the two fingers almost blinded her eyes.

“Ah…” Yin Ren sighed disappointedly.

Li Nian approached and closed the office door. Instantly, the noise from the next room turned into silence.

“She’ll get used to it,” Fu Xingchuan said.

“Yeah, it reminds me of when I was young.” Li Nian’s voice turned cold. “Someone was too lazy to write battle reports, and got used to someone ghostwriting it for them.”

“Yin Ren said he wants to work today?” Fu Xingchuan changed the subject.

“Yeah, the time has come.” Li Nian looked out the window.

Today was a good day; clear skies without a cloud, and the blazing sun of summer covered everything in a layer of white. As time passed, dusk approached, and the glaring white gradually took on an orange hue.

In the adjacent room, Yin Ren stretched with a big yawn. He bid farewell to his companions in the game one by one and stood up. Zhong Chengshuo took off his glasses and carefully placed them in a glasses case. He opened his bag and took out the flickering Karma Lantern.

Lu Xiaohe’s expression turned serious. “Be careful on the way.”

Yin Ren narrowed his eyes. “Yeah, we’ll be back before the end of our shift.”

Zhong Chengshuo stood by his side, and the two of them interlocked their fingers. In the next moment, they completely disappeared into thin air.

Lu Xiaohe surveyed the empty office for a while and suddenly felt that it was a bit deserted.

…Should she download that game and give it a try?

The Other Side.

Qi Xin leaned against a Lonely, gazing at the colorful world of the Other Side. She knew that in a little while, dusk would come to the human world.

The appointed time was approaching.

Swish, swish.

In the distance, a low, tide-like hum sounded, and the Lonely cats instantly came running from all directions. They wrapped their kittens in tablecloths and sheltered them beneath their bodies, forming a huddled group.

Qi Xin leaped up and sat at the top of the ball formed by the Lonely cats.

Swish, swish. The sound grew closer. In the eternal daylight of the Other Side, a gentle red light appeared. It spread like an evening glow, gradually engulfing everything within sight.

Following closely was a thin veil of red clouds.

They obscured the ever-changing barriers of the Other Side, making everything ambiguous and hazy. Beneath the drifting red veil was a warm night composed of pitch-black wings. The vision seemed to dissolve, and the Other Side in Qi Xin’s eyes was gradually swallowed by darkness.

It had arrived.

A night of destruction that was even more powerful and gentle than the previous “Fear”.

Amidst the swirling red veil, in the darkness ahead, stood a gigantic figure cloaked in red. Countless intricate decorations adorned its body, and a huge silver bell hung from its chest. The beautiful monster moved forward slowly, with the bell on its chest tinkling softly, while boundless darkness followed closely behind.

Its two arms hung motionless, while the other two were crossed in front of its chest. In the palm of the giant hands lay a small, setting sun.

…It was a human figure with pitch-black eyes, carrying a lantern.

The lantern continuously emitted a warm radiance reminiscent of the setting sun, like a nighttime prelude, yet also like a lighthouse pointing the way. Every creature illuminated by that radiance froze in place as if petrified before being completely engulfed by darkness.

As if sensing Qi Xin’s presence, the giant monster paused for a moment, and the head under the red veil nodded slightly towards Qi Xin.

Qi Xin stood up, placed her hand on her chest, and performed a formal salute.

“Thank you for your hard work, both of you,” she said.

And so, night fell.

Darkness completely swallowed the Other Side just before dusk. Qi Xin saw “Fear” turn around and say something to the gigantic monster.

What was it saying? Qi Xin sat back on the soft Lonely and pondered.

Probably something serious about the rules of the Other Side, she thought.

In reality, not long ago…

“Today, Gao Mengyu, Lu Hui, and Lu Nana passed their employment physicals,” Zhong Chengshuo whispered.

“After work tonight, let’s treat them to hot pot. It’s been a while since we had hot pot,” Yin Ren replied in a low voice. “It’s quite commemorative. As a senior, I’ll treat them.”

“Okay, I’ll make the reservation later.”

“Remember to include Xiao Ge, Da Huang, Xiaohe Jie, and Liang Shan.”

“No problem.”

……

In the human world, at night.

“We’ve finally made it ashore, wuwuwu! Starting tomorrow, we’ll be part of Shian!” Lu Hui sobbed uncontrollably.

“You’re embarrassing, crying in front of so many seniors.” Lu Nana took off her red fedora and fanned herself.

“These are tears brought out by the spiciness.” Lu Hui blew his nose loudly. “Speaking of which, what level are Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo? They never say; could it be A-level?”

During the hot pot meal, Lu Hui had asked Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo about their levels, but the responses from the members of Unit 9 were varied. The summary of their answers was, “You’ll know once you get in, eating is more important.” Lu Hui couldn’t pursue the matter further and had to give up.

“They seem to be in good spirits, and it doesn’t seem like they are working hard… But those two, they seem to be wearing matching rings like a couple,” Lu Nana recalled the situation at the table.

Lu Hui finally regained some presence of mind from the overwhelming emotion of passing the exam, and he was about to be shocked—

“Help!!!”

A cry for help came from nearby. The Lu siblings glanced at each other and quickly rushed towards the direction of the scream.

It was the old part of the city, with complex streets and alleys. It took them five minutes to find the source of the scream—a young girl was hiding in a corner of an alley, disheveled and trembling.

Next to her was a small van. In the bright moonlight, darkness filled the interior of the vehicle, emanating a stench of garbage and filth.

“Ah… Ah…” The girl stuttered, pointing towards the depths of the alley.

Lu Nana supported the girl, while Lu Hui stood guard in front of them, looking towards the darkness. In the shadows, a crimson pool of blood slowly crawled out, with scattered limbs strewn about and a rolling head with an expression of extreme terror on its face.

“What’s going on?” Lu Hui instantly pulled out a talisman and tightly gripped it in his hand.

He recognized that face—it had been shown on the news in the morning, seemingly one of the recently wanted fugitives.

“Just now… Just now, I was going home… and those three people suddenly got out of the car and pulled me into the vehicle… and then…” The girl stammered in fear.

Lu Hui took out a spherical spiritual object and threw it directly into the alley. Instantly, bright light illuminated everything within the alley.

Two young men stood in the center of the blood pool and scattered body parts.

They had handsome and pale faces, wearing old-fashioned robes—one in red and the other in white. Sinister facial patterns could be seen through their robes. The young man in red played with a severed head, while the one in white held a piece of severed limb and was carefully nibbling on it.

Under the bright moonlight, the two of them had no shadows, but there was no doubt that they were causing ripples in the blood pool. They were evil beings, devoid of any aura… extremely dangerous individuals.

Lu Hui froze in place, desperately thinking of a strategy.

“Shian’s people?” the young man in red spoke.

“So what if we are?”

“Give my regards to Senior Fu.” The man smiled slightly. “Unfortunately, we can’t kill everyone now, so we’ll have to go after the ones we dislike the most.”

“Let’s play hide-and-seek, Shian.”

The young man in red tossed the severed head into the air, and before the head landed on the ground, the two youths in the pool of blood disappeared without a trace.

Lu Hui sat down on the ground.

“What should we do?” Lu Nana shivered.

“…Let’s report to the police first.”

They were now official employees of Shian. Someday… Someday, they would catch such formidable evil.

The sky was filled with surging dark clouds, and rain started to fall once again.

---

The author has something to say:

Main text complete (/ω＼)

I didn’t expect to be struck by COVID just before reaching the final chapter, nor did I expect to be sick for so long… I apologize for keeping everyone waiting!

Please take care of your health.

The extras that follow may not be updated daily, but I might randomly make some corrections to typos or minor issues~

This piece turned out longer than I imagined, but this is probably my limit for length _(:з」∠)

————

The Western fantasy-themed “Stray“, the apocalyptic-themed “Happy Doomsday“, the wasteland-themed “Access Denied“, and the historical xuanhuan “Sendoff” have all been completed. You can check them out in the author’s column~

Please click on “Favorite this author” in the column if you enjoy them (〃ω〃)

The next book, “Full Server First Kill“, is tentatively scheduled to be released in the first half of this year!

————

Preview of the next work as usual:

When Xu Yue woke up, he found that he had become a monster.

To the left, there were two slimes—the old couple next door. To the right, there was a young dragon—the junior high school student downstairs. They all met and were equally bewildered by their different races.

It wasn’t until Xu Yue accidentally opened his personal status bar.

(Former) Game Developer Xu Yue: ……

His game successfully launched, but something seemed off.

A holographic game in which a whole community is trapped in, striving to find a way out (?).

---

Kinky Thoughts:

This marks the end of the main story. I really did enjoy it. If you like Nian Zhong, you can check out her other works she mentioned (all of which I have translated/is in the progress of). I highly recommend Stray, as that is the novel that made me fall in love with her work.

If you enjoyed it, please consider supporting the author by buying the raws. You can use Google Chrome with their auto translate and this guide on how to buy novels on jjwxc. Remember, only with your (financial) support can artists continue to produce more great works.

Finally, I would like to thank everyone for your comments, encouragement, help with my translations, and ko-fi donations. It in part fuels my motivation to release so frequently and try to finish this novel as soon as possible.

I forgot to mention the reason why Nian Zhong chose to name Zhong Chengshuo, Chengshuo. As explained in chapter 10, his name derives from a line in a poem that means ‘to take an oath’. Given all the oath taking happening here (from when Zhong Chengshuo accepted Yin Ren’s offering when he was the rabbit, to Yin Ren revising that oath, to the newly final oath in ch217), it’s no wonder why she chose Chengshuo.

Below is the arc summary:

Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo finally figured out what Love’s plans were. It plans to invade the human world and essentially become a “God” (a true “Divine Descent”). However, not just any body would do for it to possessed. It wanted to build a powerhouse body to store its essence in, which required time and planning (which it had been doing for the past decade).

In the meanwhile, it worked with Sunken Society to provide corruption sources in order to harness emotional energy from humans to feed the Other Side. Its current plan to spread mass amount of corruption sources was to plummet Haigu into chaos. It then planned to possess Sun Qi’an to basically become a savior in order to influence the human world.

With this plan in mind, Xiang Jiang sacrificed himself and turned into a fierce ghost, and together with his twin brother, he wanted to wreak havoc in Haigu. Fortunately, they were stopped by Fu Xingchuan, and with the help of Huang Jin (possessed by Qi Xin) was able to fend off the twin ghosts as well as Love.

Meanwhile, on the Other Side, Yin Ren finally managed to control his powers and, with Zhong Chengshuo, was able to subdue Love and essentially destroy its essence (main body).

No longer able to fulfill its plan, Love escaped, using its last remaining bit of itself in Sun Qi’an into an interstitial space while capturing Fu Xingchuan, Ge Tingting, and Huang Jin. It wanted to bide its time to recover and then return again, thinking Yin Ren wouldn’t be able to find the interstitial space it was hiding in.

Unfortunately, Ge Tingting, who still hadn’t made her wish that Yin Ren promised to grant when she helped him find Zhong Chengshuo’s body, now made her wish. It essentially acted as a beacon, calling to Yin Ren, who then found Love’s hideout.

With the help of Zhong Chengshuo, they sealed Love’s essence into Sun Qi’an’s brain tumor, which it would eventually die once Sun Qi’an died (provided she doesn’t remove the brain tumor first).

Meanwhile, Meng Huai’s team battled it out with Shen Mo. As a Charon, he had the ability to teleport, traversing between the Other Side and the human realm. Unable to gain an advantage, Meng Huai forcibly merged herself into Shen Mo. Using Elemental flesh as bombs, she indiscriminately started blowing them up, forcing Shen Mo to use up all his teleportation. With his final teleportation, he forced Meng Huai to sever herself from him, under the threat of taking out all her team, then teleported away once she cut herself off from him.

Unfortunately, she severed quite a bit of her body mass that was still attached to him. As he was going through the teleportation process, he miscalculated the mass he had, which messed with Shen Mo’s teleportation travel, causing him to be forever buried in the Other Side space.

With things resolved and the Other Side taken care of, we reached a happy ending for everyone. Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo would manage the Other Side, restoring natural order as Qi Xin wanted, Huang Jin got together with Ding Lizi, Li Nian was reunited with Meng Huai, Ge Tingting became Fu Xingchuan’s disciple, the Zhong elders were reunited with Zhong Chengfeng, Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo essentially got married…

And finally, Yin Ren got what he wanted… to live as a salted fish mooching off of Shian.

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 245: Happy New Year

Finally, for the first time on Lunar New Year’s Eve, Fu Xingchuan didn’t have to work overtime.

Yin Ren had successfully contained the spreading corruption, and with strict vigilance, the chances of another catastrophe were significantly reduced. The workload of the police force decreased, and their efficiency improved. As for the “angel’s arm”, it quietly vanished, just like many other online rumors that once went viral.

The impact of past tragic incidents was difficult to fully overcome. Haigu was like a patient recovering from a severe illness—weak and full of scars, but everything was gradually moving in a positive direction.

With suddenly having a lot of free manpower, Fu Xingchuan naturally found himself with nothing to do.

He didn’t really want to go back to the Fu family. A few days ago, Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo said they had just found Fu Wuya, and the entire Fu family was busy with rescuing their ancestor and preparing for the grand worship ceremony of the Great Celestial Master.

At this point, Fu Xingchuan’s admiration for the Great Celestial Master had dwindled considerably. He decided to exercise the privilege of being a workaholic and opted for video communication instead of going home. It was a way to escape the suffocating awkwardness.

As for the New Year’s Eve dinner, Fu Xingchuan had already found his target.

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: I want to come to your place for the New Year’s Eve dinner.]

[Li Nian: Why?]

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: Even if Meng Huai is back, there are only two people in your family. Don’t you think it would be livelier with more people?]

[Li Nian: I don’t think so. We have enough lighting at home.]

Fu Xingchuan pretended not to see it.

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: Xiao Ge doesn’t have family, and she is my disciple. As a man, it wouldn’t be appropriate for me to invite a young girl out alone. That girl works hard and deserves to have a good holiday.]

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: Huang Jin’s family doesn’t have any relatives left. We should establish a good relationship with him. He’s such a talented person.]

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: You and Meng Huai, Huang Jin and Ding Lizi, and I’ll invite Xiao Ge. The six of us will have a great time!]

[Li Nian: I don’t think Mr. Huang will be grateful to you.]

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: In just a month, it will be Valentine’s Day. Can’t you wait for a few days? I’ll cover all the expenses for this gathering, and we’ll have a chef from the Fu family come as well. Meng Huai has been on the Other Side for so many years; she deserves to have something delicious.]

Li Nian’s reply took a long time, and Fu Xingchuan watched as the typing indicator appeared multiple times. Finally, Li Nian threw out three words.

[Li Nian: Fine, I guess.]

[Li Nian: Let me discuss it with Meng Huai first.]

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: 👌]

As the western sky turned red, Ge Tingting arrived at Li Nian’s residential complex carrying a large box of candy. Huang Jin had a face longer than a guitar but obediently brought New Year’s gifts. Ding Lizi changed into a festive red down jacket, and her previously skinny body had gained some flesh, making her look vibrant.

Fu Xingchuan was the last to arrive, dressed in a black-gray coat, appearing exceptionally low-key. “Everyone’s here; let’s go!”

“I thought Professor Li would live in a high-end apartment like the ones in the magazines.” Ge Tingting curiously looked around.

Ge Tingting had seen the Fu family’s assets before. Even with the recent bonus she received, it would be enough for her to own a decent house in Haigu. Li Nian had been working for so many years so he wouldn’t be short on money.

At the moment, they stood in front of the Green Bamboo Garden Community, an old and rundown residential complex. The entire neighborhood appeared abandoned, not even comparable to the village where Ge Tingting grew up. It didn’t match Li Nian’s own image and temperament.

“That old coot has been waiting at the same place for a while. I estimate he’ll move out after the New Year,” Fu Xingchuan sneered.

The group energetically entered Li Nian’s home.

Seeing the upscale interior decoration, Ge Tingting couldn’t help but show an expression that said, “I knew it.”

However, Meng Huai had filled the place with cute decorations, completely erasing any sense of coldness. At the moment, she leaned against the kitchen door, watching the Fu family chef cook.

“Come in!” She noticed the guests and quickly ran over. “Let’s make dumplings together! I told the chef to leave some wrappers and filling.”

Li Nian rolled up his sleeves and silently stood by the table. Ge Tingting was used to being self-reliant, so she washed her hands and rushed forward. Huang Jin had originally planned to play dead, but when he turned his head and saw Ding Lizi’s expectant gaze, he had no choice but to grumble and join in.

“Lao Meng, do you still remember Shian?” Fu Xingchuan casually asked.

Fu Xingchuan skillfully wrapped the dumplings, one after another, with a consistent shape that was outrageously ugly. Li Nian, in a rare display of clumsiness, made misshapen dumplings. Fortunately, Meng Huai’s skills weren’t lacking, and the three of them ended up with equally unattractive dumplings.

“I’m thinking of becoming a combat consultant. After all, Shian still needs to research the ‘Other Side’.” Meng Huai happily produced a few more ugly dumplings. “In a few more years, when I reach retirement age, a global trip wouldn’t be bad.”

Ding Lizi looked at the “twenty-something” Meng Huai in surprise.

“It’s good that you’re back.” Fu Xingchuan grinned.

Shian had paid Meng Huai twenty-nine years of salary and bonuses, along with additional rewards for her exceptional performance on the Other Side. After all of that, Meng Huai was slightly wealthier than Li Nian. With Li Nian’s strong desire to resign, Fu Xingchuan believed that this old couple intended to retire after achieving their goals.

As long as Meng Huai remained as their consultant, Li Nian wouldn’t be able to run far.

It was hard to find a compatible partner! It wasn’t easy for a missing person to reintegrate into society, and there was a mountain of work waiting for them after New Year’s.

As if reading his mind, Li Nian shot him a sharp glare. He had indeed read his mind, and Huang Jin also gave him a menacing look.

Fortunately, Minister Fu had a thick skin.

On the entire table, only Ge Tingting and Huang Jin were able to quickly make presentable dumplings. Meng Huai halted the unseen war. “Hurry up! If we don’t finish wrapping, the dishes will get cold—”

Thus, the chef worked fervently in the kitchen while the other six continued to create havoc with the dumpling wrappers.

“What about Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo?” Ding Lizi curiously asked.

“They…uh, they should be accompanying their elder family members,” Fu Xingchuan casually replied.

The use of the term “elder family members” sounded odd.

“Yes, I asked. It will be a few more days before I can make plans with Chengfeng.” Meng Huai adapted well. “She’s more enthusiastic than me and wants to return to the police station. Maybe we’ll have a chance to cooperate after that.”

Zhong Chengfeng also received numerous rewards. However, at Zhong Chengfeng’s request, Shian applied to government agencies to update her date of birth, identification documents, and related educational qualifications. Using the same name and the age she was when she disappeared, Zhong Chengfeng once again entered the Haigu Public Security Bureau.

Twenty-nine years had passed, but a simple “resemblance” could resolve many things. Considering that too much time had passed, this soldier with nearly thirty years of combat experience would start as a probationary police officer.

For the criminal population of Haigu, this was undoubtedly bad news.

“She messaged me yesterday, saying that the Zhong family will continue celebrating until the fifth day of the Lunar New Year,” Meng Huai added, pulling Li Nian’s sleeve. “That’s enough; let’s start making dumplings—”

……

At the same time, Ping’an Manor, Building 4, Unit 601.

Zhong Chengshuo was spinning in circles around the table as if performing some kind of peculiar ritual.

It all started in the morning…

The marriage proposal was successful, and naturally, they didn’t sleep that night. Zhong Chengshuo stayed up unusually late, spending the first half of the night making a scabbard and the second half making a knife. He was busy until sunrise.

Just as Yin Ren closed his eyes, his phone rang.

Zhong Chengshuo said that the house was relatively large and was awarded the honor of hosting the Zhong family reunion night. Of course, it might also be because the Zhong family had welcomed back their beloved daughter and feared that this adopted son, Zhong Chengshuo, would develop some resentment. However, in Yin Ren’s eyes, this worry was unnecessary.

Comrade Xiao Zhong had not yet evolved the appropriate nerves.

Upon hearing that his parents and older sister were coming, Zhong Chengshuo immediately took off the nightcap he had just put on. He opened the app to check the schedule, planning every detail from preparing home-cooked dishes to buying desserts and fruits outside.

Yin Ren glanced at the schedule and almost fell asleep on the spot.

After completing all these tasks and setting the alarm clock, Zhong Chengshuo finally curled up in a ball and went to sleep.

The next half of the day was busy as the two of them went shopping and cooked seamlessly together. Finally, when the final alarm clock rang, most of the dishes were on the table, and the pork ribs with potatoes were still simmering, emitting a tempting aroma on the stove.

“Now it’s time to cool down,” Zhong Chengshuo said as he opened the timer. “My sister said they will arrive at half past five, and the dishes will be at the perfect temperature by then.”

Yin Ren: “…” Is this how New Year’s Eve dinner goes? He had never been involved in it before.

“Wouldn’t it be livelier to cook together…?” The Great Celestial Master suggested.

“Previously during New Year’s, my parents always prepared the dishes first,” Zhong Chengshuo confidently said. “I bought the best frozen dumplings, so the process should be smooth.”

After half past five, Zhong Chengshuo picked up the Karma Lantern and began to circle the table to heat it up. Yin Ren sighed in amazement. He could only throw out a small bunch of wings and closely monitor the situation in the neighborhood.

“Are they here?”

“Not yet.”

“Are they here?”

“Haven’t seen them yet.”

“Are they here?”

“…You can ask me every five minutes.”

After five minutes, forty-two seconds, and seventeen milliseconds, Zhong Chengshuo’s parents and Zhong Chengfeng arrived at the door. Zhong Chengfeng carried bags and exhaled a breath of cold air as soon as she entered.

“What’s wrong, sweetie?” Zhong Youde asked.

“Nothing.” Zhong Chengfeng looked around the warmly decorated place in shock, then looked at the table full of home-cooked dishes. “It’s quite different from what I imagined.”

An ancient Primordial Elemental and a former ancient legendary figure—she never thought the residence of these two people would be so… homey.

The game console and movies of Zhong Chengshuo were displayed on the bookshelf, and the New Year goods and snacks bought by Yin Ren filled the cabinets, creating a lively atmosphere. The two of them specifically hung some red decorations in the room, filling it with a Lunar New Year atmosphere.

The air was filled with steam, and various dishes shimmered with an enticing glow under the warm light. The aroma of stewed dishes wafted in the air. Zhong Chengshuo put on heat-resistant gloves and carefully carried the enamel pot to the table.

On his ring finger, a ring sparkled.

Yin Ren also wore a similar ring and neatly arranged the bowls, chopsticks, and chairs. The two of them looked like an ordinary couple.

“Look at your son, Lao Zhong.” Cheng Xuehua had sharp eyes and immediately noticed the ring, unable to hide the joy on her face. “Look, look.”

Zhong Youde nervously said, “We should have prepared more gifts. We need to give more red envelopes. Oh… I don’t know the customs of Xiao Yin’s hometown.”

“Everything is all ready. I wanted to show off a bit.” Zhong Chengfeng took the initiative.

“Well, in a while, you can cook the frozen dumplings. I’ve prepared ten flavors of frozen dumplings,” Zhong Chengshuo said generously.

Zhong Chengfeng: “…” Well, it seems that he still lacks a bit of human touch.

She touched her face and decisively sent a message in the family group chat, transferring a total of four payments of 50,000 yuan each, spelling out “new”, “marriage”, “happy”, and “joy”.

After a silence of twenty-nine years, “Fear The Maple*” spoke again in the group.

*Clarity: The feng in Chengfeng comes from maple (tree).

[Fear The Maple: Congratulations on your ‘new’ marriage. Wishing you both a long and happy life. 🌹]

[Fruit Knife: Thank you, sister. 🥰]

[Final Fruit: Thank you, sister. 🥰]

Zhong Chengfeng instantly felt like she had aged billions of years.

“This house is nice. I heard the housing prices are cheap, and there are large flats here.” She looked around as she spoke. “Sun Ge said that many police officers live here. Maybe I should buy a place here too—if Mom and Dad live with me, it would be convenient for them to come and go.”

“Sure, the neighboring one is vacant.” Yin Ren smiled and agreed.

“It’s time to eat.” Zhong Chengshuo nervously stared at his labor of love. He didn’t feel it was suitable to use the Karma Lantern in front of so many humans.

“Okay, okay. Xiao Yin, today we will both have a drink no matter what!” Zhong Youde brought out his liquor.

“Alright, Dad.” Yin Ren complied readily.

Zhong Chengfeng, who had sharpened her nerves for nearly thirty years, stuffed a large piece of ribs into her mouth, trying to hide her overwhelmed expression.

Zhong Youde laughed heartily.

“Hey, Xiao Yin, who’s that?” Cheng Xuehua noticed a small table among the potted plants.

On the table, there was a photo of a young girl that was slightly worn out, but the girl in the photo had a brilliant smile. In front of the photo, there was a small plate with a red apple resting quietly on it.

“She’s a friend of mine and Chengshuo,” Yin Ren said. “Her name is Xiao Hu, and she’s a very good girl.”

“Oh, I see. I’ll make sure to serve her some good dishes later.”

“Definitely.”

Meanwhile, Zhong Youde had a bit of alcohol, and his face had a rosy hue.

“Come on, you three. I wish the young ones here a prosperous new year. May all your wishes come true! As a father, I know what my own son and daughter want… Xiao Yin, tell me, what do you want? We, as parents, might be able to support you.”

Upon hearing this, Zhong Chengfeng instinctively stopped using her chopsticks.

She was also curious—what did this ancient evil, who had awakened from a thousand-year slumber and was also a divine figure who had witnessed the birth of countless powerhouses, want in this small city?

She could ignore Zhong Chengshuo, who was unfamiliar with the human world, but Yin Ren, as a genuine human, shouldn’t be too naive.

“There is indeed something I have been longing for, for a long time.”

Yin Ren answered smoothly.

Outside the huge floor-to-ceiling windows, the city was brightly lit, and fireworks bloomed in the night sky. The room was filled with the aroma of food, and a noisy New Year’s program played on the television. Yin Ren’s gentle gaze swept from Zhong Chengshuo, passing over the pairs of eyes around the round table, brushing against every corner of the warm living room, and finally returning to Zhong Chengshuo.

It was really lively.

“What I wanted, I have already obtained,” Yin Ren said with a smile. He raised his glass and toasted it with Zhong Youde.

The next moment, the clock’s hands pointed to midnight.

“Happy New Year—”

---

The author has something to say:

Suddenly, I realized that next year is the Year of the Rabbit.

It’s quite fitting for Xiao Zhong (…

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 244: Two Rings

“Why didn’t you keep the Evil Dog Spirit of Yin Village? You saved it in the first place, so why not keep it by your side?”

A few days after the Evil Spirit black dog was sent away, Zhong Chengshuo asked Yin Ren this question.

While Zhong Chengshuo asked, he was making egg pancakes in the kitchen. With the weather turning cold, Yin Ren himself remained nestled in the bed; not even the freshly cooked youtiao could make him leave.

But Zhong Chengshuo could coax him out of bed.

At this moment, the Great Celestial Master was hugging Zhong Chengshuo from behind, occasionally smelling the aroma of the egg pancakes and sometimes the scent of his beloved.

“It’s a dog. It likes to protect its family members and needs a lot of time for companionship.” Yin Ren buried his face in Zhong Chengshuo’s shoulder. “We don’t need its protection, and we don’t have that much time to spend with it… It’s happiest living in a human family.”

Yin Ren had actually considered Zhong Chengshuo’s parents, but the elderly couple was already in their old age, and it wouldn’t be suitable.

From the current situation, the former divine dog seemed to be doing well. In the photo sent by Lu Xiaohe, there was a soft dog bed beside her parents’ bed. The black dog was happily lying inside, wagging its tail and leaving blurry shadows.

Yin Ren took out Dog Thing and couldn’t help but open the photo album to look at the dog. He had just admired it for a few seconds when a phone call came in.

“Hello?”

“It’s me, Fu Xingchuan.” Fu Xingchuan’s voice carried a hint of resentment. “The identities of all the missing people have been determined and settled. Among them, the one you were looking for, ‘A’Shen’, isn’t among them. I also looked at the police records of Hu Tao’s family murder case. He has been missing all along—this kid either died on the Other Side or is living in hiding.”

Yin Ren’s smile faded slightly. “Well, thank you for your hard work.”

After saying that, he hung up the call directly.

“Should we go and find him?” Zhong Chengshuo said as he picked up a small piece of egg pancake with his chopsticks and held it near Yin Ren’s mouth.

“Let’s go find him.” Yin Ren took a bite of the egg pancake.

Afterwards, he took a bite of Zhong Chengshuo’s ear. “I want to find him together with you; just the two of us. If he’s still alive, we should definitely hand him over to the police.”

Yin Ren looked at the empty living room, and his tone became heavy.

“But before that, I want to know the truth of what happened back then. If that guy wasn’t simply driven mad by corruption…” He needed to make him suffer a bit more.

Yin Ren stopped speaking meaningfully.

Zhong Chengshuo turned his head slightly, and his pitch-black eyes widened. He smiled gently. “I understand.”

Comrade Xiao Zhong cautiously scooped the egg pancake onto a plate and took out a spare mobile phone from his pocket, opening the Nightwalkers forum.

[yamaglad: Hello, everyone.]

[No Head: ?]

[My Name is Little Red Riding Hood: Wow.]

[BOOS Supreme Evil Emperor: It’s King Yama! Hahaha, I told you King Yama is fine!!!]

[BOOS Supreme Evil Emperor: I confirmed the ID. It really is King Yama, not that idiotic fake.]

[Sister Xu Spicy Hot Pot—Grand Opening, 20% off: Oh, it’s true. It’s been a while since I’ve seen you.]

[Favorite Sky: But King Yama never greets.]

[yamaglad: @yamagald is my beloved, and from now on, we will undertake missions together.]

[yamaglad: Accepting tricky tasks, limited to evil spirits. Two-way choice, please don’t bother with trivial matters. Mission locations that have beautiful scenery, and those with a deep culinary culture will be given priority.]

[yamaglad: Interested parties, please private message. The deadline is one minute from now.]

[BOOS Supreme Evil Emperor: ??????????]

[Xinxin Dog Kennel: ……]

[Old Zhang Jianbing Guozi 028: Ah? King Yama has a wife.]

[Xingwang Repair Station (come here for all household and spiritual appliance repair): He might be getting married.]

……

Instantly, the Nightwalkers chat group went crazy with messages. Zhong Chengshuo put away his phone, satisfied. “With this, we’re officially recognized as partners.”

“You don’t need to explicitly mention our personal relationship.” Yin Ren rested his chin on Zhong Chengshuo’s shoulder while his eyes were fixed on the screen.

“It’s different. A beloved is the best partner, but the best partner isn’t necessarily your beloved.” Zhong Chengshuo corrected seriously.

“That makes sense.” Yin Ren sighed deeply.

His gaze went beyond the screen filled with frenzied messages and landed on the hamster phone pendant that Zhong Chengshuo had. It was battered, with much of the gold paint faded, looking rather forlorn.

The one that belonged to Yin Ren was destroyed, but Zhong Chengshuo insisted on keeping this one. Perhaps because it was the first gift he had ever given him, Yin Ren always felt that this item was lonely and carried a bad omen.

Since King Yama was about to make a comeback, as King Yama’s beloved and partner, it would be better to give him a better gift—something convenient to carry as a new token of their love.

He had the timing all figured out.

Less than a month remained until New Year’s Eve. The day before New Year’s Eve was the birthday Zhong Chengshuo had given him, so he would definitely prepare a birthday gift for him. When the time came, he would take out his gift and exchange it. It seemed like an interesting idea.

“I’m going to Shian.” Yin Ren finally let go of Zhong Chengshuo’s back, and he swallowed the youtiao in one bite.

“Okay,” Zhong Chengshuo said without suspicion, continuing to make pancakes.

……

Peaceful days always seemed to pass by quickly.

Day after day went by, and information about the Other Side and the Primordial Elementals was gradually made public. At Yin Ren’s strong request, Shian didn’t publicly disclose his identity as a “God” or the “Great Celestial Master”.

After all, Yin Ren hoped that Unit 9 would function normally and not be disbanded. Although some people had voiced their doubts about Unit 9’s rapid rise from C-level to A-level within six months, they fell silent in the face of the terrifying achievements of Unit 9.

Half a month passed, and it was soon the day before New Year’s Eve.

Preparing for his birthday!

Yin Ren wrapped a wooden box in bright red paper and tied it with a black ribbon, hiding it in the staff locker. Today, it would finally be put to use, and he carefully placed it in his backpack.

However, Zhong Chengshuo seemed abnormally normal today, as if he had forgotten the birthday he had personally announced.

Yin Ren felt a pang of sadness. If Zhong Chengshuo had truly forgotten, he would give him this knife next year.

Yin Ren despondently found an ice cream shop and ordered a deluxe set. He decided to subtly hint to Zhong Chengshuo by taking an hour-long stroll. If that guy still couldn’t remember, he would… he would invite Zhong Chengshuo out for a birthday feast and confiscate the wing pillow for the night.

The bored Great Celestial Master absentmindedly opened his Moments.

[Ten Thousand Taels: Sometimes I feel that being alive is really great.] The photo was a toast with Ding Lizi at a bar.

[Ear Person: Still training hard today! 💪]

[Milky Way: Half of the beef dumplings I made at home were eaten by the dog. Who is really the biological child?] The photo showed a black dog lying on the couch, watching TV.

[Self-Seeking Many Talismans: Can’t stand it anymore. Some people really prioritize romance over friendship. They don’t even invite me for hot pot!] Below, Li Nian and Meng Huai both liked the post.

[Let Me See Your Heart: The net of justice is wide, but it won’t let any leak through. Such terrifying people… [news link]]

The link contained news about the capture of the culprit in the Hu family massacre case.

The article briefly introduced the Hu family massacre in the Ping’an Community and the fact that the culprit had come forward thousands of miles from Haigu to confess more than 20 years later. The article stated that, in front of a crowd, the culprit cried and begged the police to arrest and sentence him. The specifics of what happened were still unknown.

Yin Ren absentmindedly liked the post.

Scrolling further down, Unit 7 wished for promotion to the A-level Investigation Team in the new year, while Unit 8 prayed for more year-end bonuses. Liang Shan shared safety tips for the end of the year, and Gao Mengyu showcased the cats she raised at home… For some reason, there was a pitch-black image mixed among the pictures.

Everyone seemed happy, but he felt anxious.

Yin Ren finished his ice cream with one last spoonful. Just as the sky transitioned from dark blue to blackish blue, a message arrived from Zhong Chengshuo.

[Final Fruit: Let’s eat at home tonight. It’s inconvenient to eat outside.]

[Fruit Knife: Huh? Why?]

[Final Fruit: Taking the cake out will make it easy to spoil.]

[Fruit Knife: Oh]

[Fruit Knife: You actually remembered! ☀️]

[Final Fruit: I marked it on the calendar as soon as we agreed.]

[Final Fruit: Remember to buy some spring onions when you come back.]

[Fruit Knife: …👌]

Yin Ren wrapped his scarf tightly and carried a handful of spring onions back home. This was his first time celebrating his birthday in the human world. Yin Ren didn’t even take the elevator to deliberately create a sense of ceremony with every step he took.

This feeling of anticipation was truly wonderful.

Finally, with a creak, the door opened. Warm air rushed in.

The room was still bathed in comfortable, warm light. The floor had just been cleaned and was slightly damp. Among the lush green plants, there were freshly trimmed roses. The sofa had recently been replaced with a deeper and more comfortable model, and a cozy blanket was placed on top.

Yellow Millet was buried in the blanket, almost flattened like a pancake.

Before seeing the dining table, Yin Ren smelled the dishes he usually loved and the aroma of his favorite chocolate.

“I’m back!” Yin Ren greeted happily.

Zhong Chengshuo, wearing an apron, came forward to receive the spring onions in Yin Ren’s hand.

“Wait!” Yin Ren hid the spring onion behind his back. “I also prepared a little gift for you.”

Zhong Chengshuo blinked, stopped in his tracks, and a hint of anticipation appeared on his face.

“Here, open it.” Yin Ren took out a gift box from his bag. “You always take that hamster out with you every day, aren’t you afraid it will get damaged? From now on, take this instead.”

Zhong Chengshuo sat down on the shoe-changing stool and carefully unwrapped the packaging.

The red paper blossomed, and the wooden box slid open. Inside the exquisite wooden box was a deep red velvet lining, and lying quietly on it was a dagger.

The dagger was entirely black, warm to the touch, and the same color as Yin Ren’s wings. However, its blade was adorned with intricate and exquisite crimson patterns that seemed to come alive, constantly changing. The red was incredibly beautiful, even more captivating than the original “Evil Fruit”.

Zhong Chengshuo held the dagger in his hands and felt that it looked somewhat familiar.

“This is the one I brought to the human world initially, and I got it back from Shian,” Yin Ren said with a cheerful smile. “Inside, there’s a living wing, and the blade is infused with my blood. It’s stronger than the Evil Fruit. The Karma Lantern is too ostentatious. If you want to continue your actions as King Yama, you need a handy weapon.”

“It can destroy everything, but not indiscriminately harm. You just need to hold it and greet it. When it’s not activated, it’s no different from an ordinary knife.”

Zhong Chengshuo stared at the dagger in a daze and then turned it a few times in his hand.

A very warm weapon.

“I’ll make a scabbard for it tonight,” Zhong Chengshuo said, holding the dagger tightly and refusing to let go.

“I knew it. Let’s eat,” Yin Ren proudly put down his backpack.

Zhong Chengshuo obediently stepped aside, revealing the full view of the dining table. The warm light illuminated the table, and the sumptuous dishes emitted steaming hot air. The most eye-catching thing on the table was a six-layer chocolate cake.

It stood tall like a tower, adorned with vibrant red berries and snowy white sugar frosting. At the very top of the cake sat a dark chocolate rabbit with disheveled features, just like the one in Yin Ren’s memory.

“This is also considered letting you have a taste of me,” Zhong Chengshuo explained seriously. “Back then, I didn’t really deny it.”

Yin Ren burst into laughter. “Alright, alright, I forgot. I’ll forget everything from our fight with Love from today onwards!”

He laughed for about two or three minutes before coming back to his senses. “Wait, this cake is too big, where did you buy it?”

It didn’t seem like a birthday cake style. It looked more like…

“Because it’s your first birthday, I wanted to make it special. But I didn’t know how to make it special, so I added some other meanings to it,” Zhong Chengshuo admitted candidly.

“Other meanings?”

“For you.” Zhong Chengshuo reached into his pocket and took out a small box.

The box was also rectangular but much smaller than the box used to store a dagger. Yin Ren sensed it but didn’t feel any special power. He shook it, but there was no sound inside.

He couldn’t guess.

Yin Ren decisively opened the box, and then all his jokes got stuck in his throat.

Inside were two rings.

The color combination was gold and red, just like the cheerful little hamster from before. On the pure gold ring bands, there was half an apple made of white diamonds and red enamel.

The right half apple ring was engraved with “Carefree”, and the left half apple ring was engraved with “From Beginning to End”*.

*Clarity: Carefree implies free from worries and troubles, while From Beginning to End implies commitment and perseverance. Combined, the meaning is like a life-long relationship without any worries.

Zhong Chengshuo eagerly pointed to the rings. “Look.”

Yin Ren: “Ah?”

He understood giving one ring. But two rings? He couldn’t quite grasp this person’s thought process.

“While we may not fit within human laws, I want to publicly form a family relationship with you,” Zhong Chengshuo explained affectionately. “If you’re willing, choose the one you like. If you’re not, take both rings, and you can wear them interchangeably.”

Yin Ren: “…”

Yin Ren: “You… Forget it!”

He took the ring with “Carefree” engraved on it and directly wore it on his ring finger. Zhong Chengshuo took back the box, and a hint of radiance appeared in his dark, glossy eyes.

He took two steps forward and kissed the corner of Yin Ren’s mouth.

……

“Yin Ren, can I use this dagger to cut the cake?”

“Well, I guess you can… but keep the rabbit for me. Give it all to me—”

“Okay.”

“By the way, have you ever thought about it? If I agree to your proposal, my gift would be half as meaningful.”

“Ah.”

“And we’ll have one less day to celebrate.”

“Ah…”

“Alright, stop freezing up. I won’t take back your dagger. So, let’s do this: I’ll finish this cake today!”

“I’ll think of another commemorative day.”

---

The author has something to say:

Starting from today, they are officially a real family——

---

Kinky Thoughts:

My heart is melting, ah… In the end Yin Ren got a true wedding cake after all.

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 243: Cooperation Agreement

Huang Jin arrived at the hospital holding a large bouquet of flowers. Unfortunately, the first people he encountered wasn’t Ding Lizi, but the two members of Unit 7.

Wang Zhou and Bao Linlin were walking around the Shian ward area with bandages on. During the previous street riot, Bao Linlin was trampled by the crowd while being filmed, resulting in a fractured right ankle. Wang Zhou’s eyes needed a considerable period of recuperation due to timely rescue and had the possibility of recovering his vision.

The details of the Other Side still needed to be gradually announced. As a B level investigation team, Unit 7’s impression of the riot was still “Xiang Jiang joining forces with Sunken Society to create a big disturbance”… Although, in a sense, that judgment wasn’t far off.

With one using crutches and the other having one eye bandaged, the two members of Unit 7 seemed more like war casualties.

“Hey, Xiao Huang. Sorry, we went down first. Heard you won a big victory, impressive!” Wang Zhou greeted first, his one eye constantly glancing at the bouquet of flowers.g

Huang Jin: “…”

Not to mention it would have been better. As soon as he thought about the “aftermath” of summoning Qi Xin, his face quickly turned pale.

Bao Linlin hurriedly eased the atmosphere. “Alright, enough of that. All you do is dig out your eyeballs to use as cameras. Both Unit 9 and 7 have suffered from psychological trauma.”

“You’re the one who got injured too—a distinguished Ghost Master with a fractured bone from being stepped on.”

“Hehe, let’s see who gets discharged first. Huang Jin, go do whatever you need to do. Don’t mind Wang Zhou—let’s have a meal together later!”

Seeing the teammates of Unit 7 start arguing, Huang Jin quickly slipped away against the wall.

When he reached Ding Lizi’s ward, he specifically stopped to straighten his collar and fix his slightly long bangs. Making sure that every leaf of the bouquet was in its proper place, he knocked on the door.

“Li…” The door opened, and Huang Jin almost bit his tongue when he saw what was blocking the entrance.

It was a pile of mosaics.

Why was Yin Ren here?!

Huang Jin immediately wanted to hide the bouquet, but their gazes had already shifted toward him.

[Wow, such a beautiful bouquet!] [The colors are so lovely. I’ve decided, this is my favorite color.] [Mr. Nice Guy has come to see me again—]

Huang Jin took two steps forward with his tail between his legs, put on a strained expression, and started arranging the flowers in the vase.

He really wanted to ask Yin Ren why he was here, but he didn’t want to question a deity in his mortal form.

Seeing Huang Jin turning into an emotionless flower arranging machine, Ding Lizi spoke up first. “I registered an account on a networking platform, preparing to make guitar tutorials and release songs. Xiao Yin just went next door to see Dr. Sun. I asked him to teach me how to use a website.”

She had only recently regained her vision, and everything seemed fresh and unfamiliar to her.

Huang Jin: “…” Indeed, she found the right person. The Great Celestial Master had so much experience in the field of “modern technological exploration”.

“Miss Ding’s vision is recovering well. At this rate, she will be able to be discharged in another two weeks.” Yin Ren smoothly changed the topic.

But Ding Lizi continued to stare intently at Huang Jin.

“I asked the nurse, and because my case is somewhat special, Shian waived the medical expenses. But I still must pay for the eye treatment. I’ll earn it back and repay you,” she said with a serious tone.

Huang Jin: “Uh, no need, Lizi. I don’t need the money now.” In fact, he was quite tormented by his wealth.

“Your money is your money, so we can’t count it like that.” Ding Lizi smiled. “Since our Xiao Huang has become a local tyrant, just calculate the interest for me a bit lower—”

“I…” Huang Jin was about to speak, but suddenly Yin Ren let out a loud cough.

[Come out with me.] A thought pierced into his mind.

“…I understand.” Huang Jin could only respond vaguely.

The door of the hospital room gently closed.

“Don’t speak in my mind without permission!” Huang Jin protested.

“You saw her determination. Don’t confess your feelings for now. Do you understand what I mean?” Yin Ren played with the Yellow Millet keychain, which nuzzled against his fingers with a puffing sound.

Huang Jin froze.

Ding Lizi had made up her mind to pay for the medical expenses. If he were to confess at this time, it would have implied some sort of condition.

That was close.

“Thank you.” Huang Jin wiped away his cold sweat.

“You’re welcome. It’s the concern of colleagues,” Yin Ren said. “But compared to that, you should spend more time with Qi Xin. Your abnormal vision is caused by corruption of Evil Force. She can teach you how to control it.”

“Really?”

“Really. I talked to her and asked her to give you and Ge Tingting some lessons.”

In that case, he wouldn’t resign just yet. Huang Jin seriously considered his options. It would be more responsible to confess after he could control his abnormal vision. He silently prayed for the gods’ blessings, hoping that Ding Lizi’s career would go smoothly.

Unfortunately, Huang Jin still didn’t know that his perfect plan would encounter problems a few days later…

Ding Lizi carefully modified <Mr. Nice Guy> song and received rave reviews online. She changed the title from the original <Mr. Nice Guy> to <Mr. Right>. In the song’s introduction, she left an open-ended question without specifying anyone’s name—

[To my most important friend in life. After I’ve repaid the medical expenses, would you like to be with me?]

The cautious Mr. Huang Jin ultimately missed his chance.

……

Afternoon, Shian underground.

“I saw Dr. Sun in the morning, and everything is sealed tight. You can rest assured. It could be a few months or even several decades, but this generation’s ‘Love’ will disappear.”

Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo were sitting across from Qi Xin, who had a subtle expression as if she were asking, “No specific time?”

“It depends on Dr. Sun’s own arrangements.” Zhong Chengshuo shook his head. “Her brain tumor won’t worsen anymore, but it’s located in a troublesome spot. We have to rely on the judgment of neurology experts.”

Qi Xin let out a long sigh. Several decades were relatively short for a Primordial Elemental, so she wasn’t particularly concerned.

“‘Satisfaction’ has recovered quite well. New ‘Disgust’ and ‘Joy’ have emerged. However, their previous generation’s remains are gone, and the two cubs have nothing to eat, resulting in malnutrition.” Qi Xin sat obediently at the table with her fingers interlocked.

“I will find a way to take care of the cubs myself. But for the future handling of the Other Side, I need both of you to provide me with a concrete plan. I know that although ‘Fear’ has fused with a human, its power remains, just like before.”

“Having a daily indiscriminate slaughter like before isn’t a good solution.” Zhong Chengshuo vigorously shook his head. “Currently, I am studying the life characteristics of the Primordial Elementals and can make some calculations.”

“…What do you mean?”

Zhong Chengshuo: “We will prioritize killing weak and aging individuals, heavily injured individuals, and highly destructive abnormal individuals. Humans’ excessive reproductive numbers have already begun to affect the intelligence of the Greater Primordial Elementals. The previous simple mode of death is no longer suitable. Otherwise, given time, another ‘Love’ might appear.”

“In plain language, Zhong Ge plans to reference the death patterns of human populations and create a more reasonable version for the Elementals,” Yin Ren summarized succinctly.

Although it was a casual remark, as a Primordial Elemental, Qi Xin still felt a sense of oppression.

The two individuals in front of her were formulating “laws”.

“I know this is not an easy task. I’m counting on both of you.” Qi Xin lowered her head slightly.

“Huh?” Zhong Chengshuo looked confused and pushed up his glasses.

Qi Xin forced a smile. “Mr. Yin is a human, and to him, the Elementals are just monsters. But since Fear has already acquired human emotions, he is inevitably under pressure.”

Zhong Chengshuo: “I don’t feel any pressure.”

Qi Xin: “I heard that humans can feel guilt…”

Yin Ren looked at Zhong Chengshuo in silence. After a moment of contemplation, Zhong Chengshuo spoke frankly. “No, I don’t. When I was conducting experiments in the laboratory, I killed billions of bacteria.”

Qi Xin: “…” Alright, she underestimated the horror of Old Fear.

“This is our plan.” Yin Ren cleared his throat and presented a document.

[Cooperation Agreement]

[1. Task division: Zhong Chengshuo is responsible for calculating targets and instilling fear; Yin Ren is responsible for hunting targets and crushing corpses.]

[2. Attendance agreement: Zhong Chengshuo is responsible for observing changes in the Primordial Elementals population and determining attendance dates; the duration and routes of attendance are under Yin Ren’s control.]

[3. Important notes: We promise that the cleanup of deaths on the Other Side will not be less than once per month. Shian or the Other Side will pay compensation per cleanup, which will be evenly split between Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo. If there are dangerous and powerful Primordial Elementals or Gods, individual annihilation services can be provided depending on the situation. In principle, please do not contact us after 23:00. Please do not enter private residences without permission. Please do not contact us during vacation periods (including but not limited to annual leave, sick leave, statutory holidays, etc.)]

Qi Xin remained speechless.

It seemed like there was nothing wrong, but she couldn’t shake off the feeling that something was amiss.

…Let it be. She signed the agreement with a stern face.

After that, the eternal day on the Other Side disappeared.

After a period of time, the Other Side would be illuminated by a fiery red sunset. After the glow and red clouds, darkness would follow closely—then, when the darkness subsided, some of the Elementals would disappear. Only the decomposed flesh and blood of the Elementals would remain in the tunnels, quietly waiting to be washed away by ‘Satisfaction’.

Soon after, new cubs would be born, crying as they hit the ground.

Nowadays, Death seemed to be different from before. The proportion of Elementals that survived for a long time and were covered in scars decreased. On the other hand, the Elementals with intact bodies and remained active often managed to survive.

With each recurring night, the famine gradually diminished.

The Elementals no longer need to tear each other apart for consumption. Within the once empty tunnels of the Other Side, countless Primordial Elementals swam together in groups, resembling schools of fish.

But that’s a story for another time.

……

After ensuring her mother’s safety, Lu Xiaohe returned to Shian once again.

With her parents in good health and receiving a large sum of prize money, she decided to buy a more spacious house for the whole family. The three of them could then start living a relaxed and enjoyable life.

She had quietly set her sights on a large house in Ping’an Manor. She planned to buy it at the beginning of the year so that the family could celebrate the Lunar New Year in their new home. Although the reputation of Ping’an Manor in Haigu wasn’t good, with Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo settling there, there was probably no safer place in the world than Ping’an Manor.

Without the heavy burden on her chest, Lu Xiaohe’s complexion had improved significantly.

With the sudden appearance of two “Gods”, the specific arrangements for Unit 9 hadn’t yet been finalized. Lu Xiaohe’s role mostly involved summarizing and reporting on daily tasks while also occasionally checking the work group of Unit 9.

[Fruit Knife: Who wants a dog? @everyone]

[Ten Thousand Taels: ?]

[Ear Person: ?]

[The River Flows Eastward: Hey, why are we talking about dogs again?]

[The River Flows Eastward: I heard you guys received an award from the city. When should we gather?]

[Final Fruit: Let’s first handle the dog matter.]

[Ear Person: Can’t Yin Ge and Zhong Ge keep a dog?]

[Final Fruit: We already have two at home, so it’s not convenient.]

[Ten Thousand Taels: … 👋]

Lu Xiaohe pondered for a moment. Zhong Chengshuo was probably referring to Dog Thing and Yellow Millet. Both were different entities—one a Primordial Elemental and the other an evil—and indeed, it wouldn’t be suitable to add another being into the mix.

Speaking of which, her parents were now worry-free in terms of their livelihood and had plenty of free time. Her family had always liked dogs, so it would be a good idea to have an elderly person take care of a dog and take it for walks.

[Milky Way: What kind of dog is it?]

[Fruit Knife: It’s a large breed, very cute. Shian can help with the registration. By the way, it can understand human language and is the perfect choice for guarding the house.]

[Fruit Knife: Limited adoption within this group (except for Liang Shan). If you want to adopt, act quickly, as missing this opportunity means missing it altogether.]

[The River Flows Eastward: ???]

[Fruit Knife: Sorry, Liang Ge, this is an internal activity of Unit 9.]

Lu Xiaohe scratched her head and privately messaged Yin Ren.

[Milky Way: I’m planning to move to Ping’an Manor recently and coincidentally thinking of getting a dog.]

[Fruit Knife: Xiaohe Jie —— [Image]]

The image showed a big black dog with its tongue hanging out, its round eyes wide open, and it was panting happily. It appeared to be a small breed and was indeed very cute.

[Milky Way: It’s so adorable, but it’s a bit big. Where did this dog come from, and why is Shian taking care of it?]

[Fruit Knife: Zhong Ge and I have been conducting related research recently. Biological evils can incorporate a large amount of Evil Force. Although it can’t compare to the “Gods” formed by fusion of Elementals, it can be considered a special ability user.]

[Milky Way: Just tell me directly.]

[Fruit Knife: Well, I was thinking, if I can correct the imbalance in the Evil Force, maybe certain things can become more stable…]

[Milk Way: …………………………………………]

[Milky Way: Is this dog Shian’s Evil Spirit?]

[Fruit Knife: Ahahaha]

[Fruit Knife: I’ve taken care of it, so it’s completely safe. After it regained its sanity, it became very affectionate. Considering its physical and mental well-being as well as its harmlessness, Shian wants someone who knows about it to adopt it.]

[Fruit Knife: Other Evil Spirits will be dealt with on another day. Most likely, they will be kept for further research. It’s the only one of its kind in the world 🥺.]

[Milky Way: Let me think about it.]

[Milky Way: Can it really understand human language?]

[Fruit Knife: It can flush the toilet by itself, never gets sick, and can even call 120 for the elderly. It is highly sensitive to evil qi and killing intent. With it, not even a group of robbers can break into your home.]

Lu Xiaohe fell into deep thought.

Living next to Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo was indeed safe, but evil beings were hard for the living to guard against, so having a formerly Evil Spirit as a pet seemed like a good idea.

[Milky Way: Deal.]

Considering its original form, “Dark Cloud” would be a suitable name.

Immediately, she opened the family group chat and forwarded the photo of the black dog.

[Milky Way: Mom’s recovery gift 🙌]

After spending time with her colleagues for so long, she unconsciously noticed that her judgment criteria seemed to be off…

Oh well, it didn’t matter.

---

The author has something to say:

Miss Lu’s judgment criteria is equally in jeopardy. Unit 9 gradually becoming more outrageous.jpg

Lu Xiaohe: Whatever, he’s a good boy!

---

Kinky Thoughts:

Ah, my heart melted for Huang Jin and Ding Lizi. Don’t be so old-fashioned Huang Jin. Even girls can confess too!

I’m so happy for the Evil Dog Spirit. He’s the best boy!

At this rate, only Huang Jin’s judgment remains somewhat stable…

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 242: Homecoming

Inside Shian’s dedicated car, people were chatting lively.

With the corruption resolved and the crisis on the Other Side averted, the “#1 Evil Smith” and “#1 Priestess”, Zhou Gong and Qiao Shang, naturally learned the truth. They were initially shocked by the turmoil on the Other Side, and then they were equally shocked by Yin Ren’s identity as the Great Celestial Master. In the end, they expressed polite yet intense greetings towards Fu Xingchuan for including the Great Celestial Master and Old Fear within the competition.

Luo Wanxiang and Sang Jie had recently recovered, but the two girls were kept in the dark. “People from the Haigu branch got promoted just like that? We won’t lose in next year’s competition!”

Qiao Shang turned her head and looked out the window in silence.

Zhou Gong, usually with a cheerful round face, looked a bit downcast.

The Yandu branch suffered the greatest losses this time—Fu Tianyi’s partner, Tao Lan, died in the attack on the Fu residence, and Dr. Meiqiu, the science post, decided to stay on the Other Side. The Yandu branch finally managed to get a “god”, but the god ran away the next day.

Dr. Meiqiu claimed that there wasn’t much difference between the Other Side and the mortal realm for it. The Lonelies on the Other Side respected it, and there were also many research projects to pursue, so it chose to stay there temporarily.

Considering research-related matters, the Yandu branch was willing to retain Dr. Meiqiu’s salary and benefits.

However, there was a significant gap between being stationed and having a nominal position.

Among the members brought by the Yandu branch, only Fu Tianyi remained. Originally a spirited young man, he seemed to have participated in the TV show <Transformation>* after being borrowed by the Haigu branch. Although Fu Tianyi’s abilities multiplied several times, he himself felt like a discarded mineral water bottle trampled by ten thousand feet, his eyes filled with weariness.

*(变形计) Lifestyle role-swapping reality TV show in China that borrows the idea of the reality TV show “Wife Swap“. It has two protagonists with very different lifestyles swap places and experience each other’s life.

No one knew what this guy had experienced. He didn’t even bother to go back to his hometown. If it weren’t for Zhou Gong’s keen ability to recognize spirit weapons, he would have thought that this Fu Tianyi was Fu Xingchuan wearing a mimicry headgear.

Zhou Gong smiled and found a topic. “Xiao Fu, are you sure you won’t go back to the Fu family?”

Fu Tianyi’s heart was like stagnant water.

“I want to go back for training and learning,” he said.

“It’s a good thing for young people to have ambition, but don’t rush for success.” Zhou Gong habitually advised. “You are already very outstanding now, and your contributions this time were significant. Don’t worry about those two from Haigu…”

Fu Tianyi numbly shifted his gaze and grunted.

In this battle, it wasn’t just Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo who fought bravely.

Meng Huai and Zhong Chengfeng were both in their early twenties when they went missing, just a few years older than him. Huang Jin dared to summon the great Primordial Elemental, Qi Xin, using himself, and Ge Tingting nailed the coffin lid on Love with her wish. As for him… he was just chopping radishes while throwing spells, always being protected behind the front lines.

Even now, Fu Tianyi couldn’t summon any feelings of dissatisfaction.

“I still have a long way to go,” he calmly and sincerely replied. “I just want to go back soon—maintaining order is more important than competing for superiority.”

There were too many things he couldn’t accomplish, so it was good to focus on what he could do.

…..

Zhong Chengfeng stopped in front of a familiar building.

She had maintained her alertness and physical activity, not needing as much rest as the other survivors. On the day of the medical examination, she was taken out by Zhong Chengshuo and Yin Ren.

The residential area was well maintained, but the passage of time couldn’t hide the aged appearance of the building itself. Twenty-nine years ago, on the day she left, the neighbor on the first floor had just installed new anti-theft windows. She remembered those windows being shiny silver, casting colorful shadows.

Now, they were covered in rust stains and scratches, uneven, and covered in thick rust and dust around the screws.

‘How strange,’ she thought.

Before the final battle with Love, Yin Ren, to stabilize the morale, had revealed some “unimportant matters” to her and Meng Huai. For example, he also had a name called “Zhong Yi”, and Zhong Chengshuo was the ancient embodiment of “Fear” fused with a human body.

Having witnessed countless strange phenomena and with a great battle looming, Meng Huai and Zhong Chengfeng’s emotions remained remarkably stable.

They lived in the space they imagined, wandering in a world formed by the consciousness of all things. They had seen overwhelming monsters and the most absurd dreams.

Having spent twenty-nine years on the Other Side, she had been there longer than she had lived in the human world. Her mental age was realistically fifty or more. Zhong Chengfeng understood her parents’ adoption of her little brother and didn’t mind that her brother was a Primordial Elemental, nor did she intend to interfere with her brother falling in love with another legendary figure.

She thought she wouldn’t be surprised or frightened by anything.

…But now, standing in front of the familiar corridor, she couldn’t take another step forward.

The last time she stood here, her parents were in good health with straight backs. They had more black hair than gray, and smiles on their faces.

“I applied for medical assistance from Shian. If our parents have any health issues, they can receive help immediately,” Zhong Chengshuo explained carefully when he saw that Zhong Chengfeng hesitated to move forward. “And they’re not top-tier science posts. Yin Ren can also help save them.”

Yin Ren nudged Zhong Chengshuo’s waist and shook his head gently.

But what was likely hindering her steps was more than just that.

“They have never forgotten you. They have indeed aged, but their past time together was full of love, and their bodies are still strong. For ordinary people, most of their lives have gone smoothly.”

He reached out and gave her a gentle push from behind.

“Go on, fulfill their final regret.”

Zhong Chengfeng took a deep breath. “…Can you two go in front of me?”

“Oh,” Zhong Chengshuo responded, picking up the pace.

While the three lingered downstairs, Zhong Youde was busy in the kitchen.

Zhong Chengshuo and Yin Ren, as the “heroes who made the greatest contributions in the pedestrian street incident”, received heavy awards within the city. Shian also specifically mentioned giving them a significant bonus, making the elderly couple extremely happy. Yin Ren had already informed the group in the chat that he would be bringing Zhong Chengshuo, along with a friend, to their home for a celebratory dinner in the evening.

He also specifically mentioned that he wanted to eat stewed spareribs with potatoes made by Zhong Youde.

Zhong Youde worked quickly. “Xiao Yin is quite strange. I remember he only likes meat and doesn’t eat potatoes much. Our son doesn’t eat heavy dishes either, but… “

It was actually Zhong Chengfeng who liked this dish a lot.

Zhong Youde’s initially high spirits dampened a bit. He sighed and covered the stew pot with its lid.

“With Xiao Yin accompanying him, our son has made progress.” Zhong Youde raised his voice. “And now, he actually has two friends, including Xiao Yin!”

Cheng Xuehua was arranging cups on the sofa and chuckled at his words. “Come on, don’t get too excited. It could be Xiao Yin’s friend.”

Zhong Youde mumbled, “Xiao Yin’s friend? Xiao Yin wouldn’t bring anyone home for a meal so casually. That young man knows his manners…”

“What are you mumbling about?”

“Nothing, nothing.”

At the entrance, the anti-theft door made three orderly and rhythmic sounds, not too light or too heavy, unmistakably Zhong Chengshuo.

“Coming!”

Cheng Xuehua picked up her cup and happily hurried to the door. Zhong Youde in the kitchen quickly perked up his ears to listen and find out who this friend really was.

What awaited him was the sound of a glass cup shattering on the ground.

After a few seconds of silence, Cheng Xuehua’s low sobbing could be heard.

Could it be a villain disguised as Zhong Chengshuo?! Zhong Youde was startled. He didn’t have time to gather intelligence and simply grabbed a kitchen knife, rushing out of the kitchen. “Don’t move; the two of us used to be… “

His unfinished words got stuck in his throat.

He saw his daughter standing at the doorstep, trembling in his wife’s embrace.

Just as in the countless photos they had flipped through, their daughter’s appearance hadn’t changed in the slightest, except that she had become slightly thinner since she left. Before the three of them could enter the house, Zhong Chengfeng’s tears flowed down her face, forming white mist in the cold air.

She’s still alive.

“Fengfeng…” Zhong Youde called out as if in a dream.

Their reclusive son had found a beloved partner, and the two of them had made achievements in their work. Their daughter, who had been missing for nearly thirty years, returned home unchanged, and a festive meal was being cooked on the stove. Everything was going so smoothly and beautifully that it felt like a dream.

Such things couldn’t happen in the world.

Yin Ren coughed lightly twice. “Chengshuo and I recently went on a business trip to a certain place… Chengfeng Jie and her friend were trapped there, and we brought her out. The environment there was a bit special, so Chengfeng Jie didn’t change much, but her health is excellent.”

Zhong Chengshuo supported his mother and sister into the home. Once the heavy anti-theft door closed, the cold air was sealed outside again. He quickly took a few steps forward and took the kitchen knife from Zhong Youde’s hand.

He pried open the old man’s trembling hand. Feeling his son’s warmth, only then did Zhong Youde regain his senses.

Whether it was a dream or not, Zhong Youde couldn’t think about it. The old man stumbled forward and embraced his long-lost family, finally breaking into sobs.

The heartwarming reunion ended with the smell of burnt food from the spareribs stew with potatoes.

As the smell of burnt food reached his nose, Yin Ren’s sentiments and gentleness disappeared from his face. With a swift movement, he rushed into the kitchen to salvage the pot of overcooked meat.

This little incident didn’t have a big impact. After all, for the rest of the evening, except for Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo, the other three had no appetite. As night fell, the elderly couple in the Zhong family still held Zhong Chengfeng’s hand, unwilling to let go.

Seeing that the atmosphere was right, Yin Ren urgently intercepted Zhong Chengshuo, who had just put on his sleeping cap. Poor Zhong Chengshuo didn’t even have a chance to express his confusion before being clasped under Yin Ren’s arm and taken back home through a gap in space.

“Let them have some time alone,” Yin Ren said with a serious tone, placing Zhong Chengshuo back in his own bedroom.

Zhong Chengshuo thought for a few seconds and agreed.

“You previously asked me to change your wish, to find out the truth and the culprit, and I fulfilled it. My father made a wish to find my sister, and I fulfilled that too.”

Zhong Chengshuo lay flat in bed, adjusted his sleeping cap contentedly, and a wing expertly snuggled into the blanket, which he hugged tightly.

“Now, the only wish left for you is to ‘protect Haigu’, and you said you want to fulfill it together with me,” he emphasized.

“Of course.” Yin Ren also got into bed, and the two of them pressed close to each other, instantly warming up the covers.

The Karma Lantern was placed openly on the refrigerator beside the bed, gently casting a red light on the night. After witnessing its owner’s power, Dog Thing chose to cling tightly to Yin Ren. It was now obedient, letting the Yellow Millet keychain hang on it, which had already developed immunity to the red light and was peacefully snoring.

Outside the window, the streetlights were on, and snowflakes fluttered down, accompanied by a faint whistling sound from the wind.

“Zhong Ge.”

“Mm?”

“What are your plans for the future, in terms of work?”

“Together with you, guarding Haigu, conducting research on the Primordial Elementals, writing papers…” Zhong Chengshuo’s voice sounded sleepy and muffled.

‘This guy is really simple-minded.’ Yin Ren chuckled. “And what about the Other Side?”

“You are at the top of the new food chain. Your thoughts matter more… Is ‘God’ considered an invasive species… Ah…”

Zhong Chengshuo wrapped his arms around Yin Ren’s waist, buried his nose in the wing, and fell into a deep sleep. His warm breath blew into the wing with a hint of mist, like a gentle and tender kiss.

Yin Ren sniffed the fresh scent on his lover’s body, opened his mouth, and lightly pressed his sharp teeth against Zhong Chengshuo’s neck as if giving him a gentle bite. The slight sense of repulsion between them still existed, jumping on his tongue like a well-seasoned spice.

Zhong Chengshuo slept soundly without any sense of vigilance.

‘There was nothing that can be done about it,’ Yin Ren thought seriously. Since Comrade Xiao Zhong had no sense of crisis, he could only be considered a lifelong reserve food supply—someone he couldn’t bear to eat until the end.

Yin Ren kissed his lover’s forehead again and let out a big yawn.

As for the matters of the Other Side… Let Qi Xin hold a meeting at Shian tomorrow. Then it would be time for a vacation, and after that…

Yin Ren’s gaze swept across the empty living room. The tablet lay quietly on the sofa without any signs of lighting up. In the Coffin Nails group chat, Hu Tao’s profile picture remained gray.

There were still many things he had to do. Yin Ren nuzzled against his lover and closed his eyes.

……

“Fu Xingchuan, what do you mean?”

Early the next morning, Huang Jin’s resignation letter fell to the ground.

He had received his bonus and restored his reputation. Everything was heading in the right direction, and Huang Jin believed he could leave now—who could stop him when there were no flaws to be found? Who?

But cold reality blocked his path once again.

“I’m sorry, Xiao Huang, but I don’t have the authority to approve this.” Fu Xingchuan expressed his apologies. “Looking at the world now, you’re the only one who can trigger the ‘Individual Divine Descent’. You are an important combatant of Shian and a key subject of surveillance. Your treatment will definitely be further improved. As for resigning…”

“I am a spirit smith!” Huang Jin’s voice almost cracked. “To send a spirit smith to the frontlines, does Shian have no humanity?!”

Fu Xingchuan patted his shoulder. “Young people shouldn’t be too modest. Your combat power surpasses mine when you are possessed by ‘Sorrow’.”

“That’s done by Qi Xin! I can’t do it at all!”

“’Sorrow’ and ‘Lonely’ recently entered into a long-term partnership with Shian. ‘Sorrow’ is willing to provide combat support when necessary in exchange for a stable reward.”

That being said, Qi Xin requested the reward be directly transferred to Yin Ren in exchange for Yin Ren’s assistance with the Other Side. These two large monsters forcibly turned Shian into a labor intermediary.

Huang Jin felt like crying without tears. “Then let it go find someone else. Can’t it work with Ge Tingting?! It’s not just me who has brain damage—”

“It says Ge Tingting is too proactive, and it can’t get along with her. But it finds the scent emanating from you quite appealing.”

Fu Xingchuan waved his hand.

“Besides, Ge Tingting has been busy lately. Xiang Jiang ran away, so I need to find another newcomer with the ‘Ghost General’ qualification to mentor. The training is very rigorous, and her time might not be sufficient. Huang Jin, please try to understand.”

It seemed like he intended to take Ge Tingting as his disciple.

“You’re doing this on purpose, aren’t you?!”

Huang Jin really wanted to cry, but when he thought of Qi Xin’s possible gaze, he forcefully swallowed his tears. Things were different now. He didn’t lack money at all. Huang Jin had never imagined that being chased by money could be so painful.

Fu Xingchuan rubbed his stubbled chin. “I understand your feelings. It’s still unclear about the policies since the ‘Other Side’ was just discovered. Perhaps when there’s a new minister in charge, they might approve it for you.”

Huang Jin gave him a dead fish stare.

Fu Xingchuan’s tone became more sincere. “Seriously, I can’t do this for many more years. Recently, we found a lot of clues about the Coral Reef Company. Once we handle Sunken Society, I’ll retire early. Besides, you all know. Li Nian plans to get married and retire. He’s even more anxious than you… By the way, how are you and Xiao Ding doing?”

Huang Jin forced a laugh and quickly left the scene.

At least Fu Xingchuan reminded him. Halfway through his tearful escape, Huang Jin took two steps back and went to a flower shop on the street, buying a large bouquet of flowers.

Anyway, it was still early, and Shian wouldn’t fire him for being absent from work.

Might as well go to the hospital while he was at it.

---

The author has something to say:

Continuing with the conclusion—

Don’t worry, all the details that everyone cares about will have answers XD

---

Kinky Thoughts:

Huang Jin, you’ll never be able to resign. That old fox Minister Fu already knows he’s living past 90!

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 年终 / Nian Zhong

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 241: Drizzle

“Ow, ow, ow, it hurts!!!”

Meng Huai screamed loudly.

Yin Ren had a stern face as he repeatedly used healing magic on Meng Huai’s wounds. Meng Huai was severely injured, and even for him, painless treatment was impossible for humans. As a species, humans couldn’t grow new limbs. Going against nature came with a price.

After beating Love and swiftly dealing with the seal, Yin Ren healed Sun Qi’an and quickly sent her to the hospital with Zhong Chengshuo. Before even leaving the hospital entrance, he turned back to the Other Side and prepared to deal with Shen Mo.

Given the intensity of their work, they would definitely receive a bonus of a hundred months’ worth of salary.

To Yin Ren’s surprise, Shen Mo had already been dealt with by the small team from the Shian’s base. The good news was good, but Meng Huai’s injuries were truly shocking.

“Very well, at least you know it hurts.” Seeing Meng Huai behaving like this, Yin Ren grew somewhat annoyed. “Miss Meng, if you get hurt any worse, I can only resort to the ‘Meiqiu treatment’ on you.”

Meng Huai knew what Yin Ren was referring to.

Assimilation with Elemental flesh included an extended lifespan, but the drawback was sacrificing some of your own flesh. The Great Celestial Master assimilated with “Fear” and could restore his human form through self-sealing, but he was a bona fide monster. If Meng Huai were to assimilate with an Elemental of similar strength, she would end up following in the footsteps of the Meiqiu and bid farewell to her human form completely.

“Ah… Thank you, but it’s not necessary. If I grew fourteen legs, I wouldn’t be able to find pants,” Meng Huai joked.

Yin Ren snorted and helped her stretch her newly grown limbs.

Bones, meridians, and muscles were all normal. Just to be safe, he carefully cast the healing magic several more times.

“That’s enough.”

Yin Ren clapped his hands.

“You’ve been on the Other Side for too long. After you go out, have Shian perform a medical examination on you. They have arrangements for transporting the survivors… Professor Li is in charge of that,” he added deliberately.

Meng Huai’s movement of shrugging her shoulders stiffened for a moment. “Oh.”

She fell silent for a while, then changed the subject. “Where is Mr. Zhong?”

“He’s cleaning up outside,” Yin Ren replied casually.

A while ago, they had decided to split up. Yin Ren went to deal with Shen Mo, while Zhong Chengshuo went to clean up the aftermath on the Other Side. After Love disappeared, the Other Side fell into chaos, and they needed powerful Primordial Elementals to restore order and capture a couple of disobedient ones to deliver takeaway for Qi Xin.

Who would have thought that Zhong Chengshuo’s trip would take so long?

Jiao Lian and her colleagues had been sent to Shian for treatment ahead of time, and Dr. Cat led the Lonely army on an expedition. Meng Huai was resting and sleeping in the base, while Zhong Chengfeng was anxiously pacing around.

And Yin Ren sat back in a corner, savoring the tranquility of this moment.

An hour passed, and the peace was nice.

Two hours passed, and it became a bit boring.

Three hours passed, and Yin Ren couldn’t sit still any longer. The current Zhong Chengshuo could walk sideways on the Other Side, and even if an Elemental creature took a bite, it would break a few teeth. It shouldn’t have taken this long for him to show any signs of activity.

He tore open a gap in space and quickly found the exuberant Zhong Chengshuo—besides “exuberant”, he couldn’t think of any other word to describe him.

The Karma Lantern was being used as a lantern of mischief by this person. As soon as the red light came on, everything around froze, not daring to move. Comrade Xiao Zhong ran around, climbing up and down, meticulously observing every detail of the Elementals.

…Officially, it was cleaning up the aftermath, but in reality, it was scientific exploration.

Yin Ren noticed Zhong Chengshuo as he stuck his head into the mouth of a giant Elemental, attempting to observe its internal structure. The poor creature was frightened and lost its color, with its seven or eight eyes rolling back in panic.

Yin Ren suppressed his aura, quietly sneaked up behind Zhong Chengshuo, and scratched his waist. Zhong Chengshuo’s body jolted, quickly pulling his head out. “Yin Ren.”

“Experiencing occupational disease?” Yin Ren raised an eyebrow.

“Now that all kinds of Elementals have emerged, it’s a rare opportunity.” Zhong Chengshuo lifted up his imaginary notebook, innocently expressing himself. “You gave me the ‘Compendium of Primordial Elementals,’ and I wanted to fill it up as soon as possible.”

Yin Ren pretended to have a sudden realization. “So that’s how it is! I misunderstood you—I thought you were being influenced by Love and lost control. I’m a bit embarrassed now.”

Zhong Chengshuo slowly turned his head and averted his gaze.

“Ah, it’s a pity we can’t bring recording devices to the Other Side. I’ll just have to remember it in my heart. Such a generous treat might only happen once.” Yin Ren wiped away non-existent tears.

Zhong Chengshuo coughed. “That was an irrational judgment when lacking rationality—very unreasonable.”

“Oh?”

“Eating me would indeed greatly increase your strength, but you wouldn’t be happy afterward,” Zhong Chengshuo said, “and I don’t want to be eaten by you—if I were eaten, I wouldn’t be able to stay by your side.”

“I want to stay by your side even more.” Zhong Chengshuo solemnly declared.

Yin Ren had only wanted to tease his lover, but unexpectedly, a confession slipped out. He coughed a couple of times, feeling a warmth in his chest. “Well, let’s forget about it. When we go out, you can treat me to something—I almost forgot, delete the ‘Innocent Thoughts’ recording from your phone!”

Zhong Chengshuo’s nod came to a sudden halt, pretending not to have heard the second half of the sentence.

“Zhong Chengshuo!”

“Qi Xin’s condition isn’t very good. Let me take you to see her.”

“Don’t change the subject—! …Don’t run, stand still! There’s something important to discuss!”

……

Sun Qi’an woke up once again in the hospital ward.

She recognized it; it was Shian’s dedicated ward. What happened before… What happened again?

It seemed like she was attacked in the back mountain of Haigu Secondary School, and after that, she resumed work and recently went shopping on the new pedestrian street. But those memories were hazy, as if obscured by a layer of fog. She tried hard to recall but could only remember the keyword “angel’s arm”.

Oh no!

Dr. Sun’s alarm bells rang loudly in her mind. If her consciousness was affected to this extent, it was possible that the tumor in her head had undergone pathological changes. If things didn’t improve, she would have to take a leave and go see a renowned specialist in Yandu.

Sun Qi’an updated her parents on the situation and then calculated her medical insurance and savings with a grim face. With a sigh, she sat up. She turned on the TV in the hospital room, and the default channel happened to be the local television station.

“It has been four days since the chemical pollution leak on the new pedestrian street, which has been confirmed by the police as a terrorist attack… If you were on the street that day, please seek medical attention promptly due to the large amount of toxic substances released…”

“In recent days, the suspect has caused panic by releasing nerve gas in public places, poisoning specific individuals, committing murder, and abandoning the bodies…”

“One person died in the pedestrian street incident. The deceased was surnamed Xiang, and the body has yet to be found…”

“Technicians from the Shian Group made outstanding contributions in the pedestrian street incident. These heroes responded quickly and effectively protected the lives and property of the public. They will attend the city’s commendation ceremony in the coming days…”

Sun Qi’an rubbed her temples. So that’s what happened. Shian clashed with the monsters on the pedestrian street, and she was probably affected. But she never believed in such things; they supposedly had little impact.

Upon waking up this time, she actually felt refreshed and much better than before.

Sun Qi’an grabbed her phone and made a brief call to her family. After a while, she opened WeChat and found a specific group chat.

WeChat group “Paid Love Consultation”.

The last chat record was about information about the grandchild of the Qiu family. Sun Qi’an scrolled through the messages and felt a bit emotional.

These were her two closest friends in Shian. She remembered that their ranks weren’t high, so they shouldn’t have encountered any trouble. Just in case, it would be good to ask.

[Let Me See Your Heart: I saw the news, and the pedestrian street incident seems serious.]

[Let Me See Your Heart: Are you two okay? Did Shian send you there? @Fruit Knife @Final Fruit]

[Fruit Knife: …]

[Final Fruit: …]

[Let Me See Your Heart: What’s wrong?]

[Fruit Knife: Qi’an Jie, I heard that you were also at the pedestrian street that day. Are you okay?]

[Let Me See Your Heart: I’m fine, just dealing with some old issues~ I’m planning to go to Yandu and will bring back some local specialties for you.]

[Fruit Knife changed the group name to “The Three Gods on Earth”]

[Let Me See Your Heart: 🤨]

[Fruit Knife: Just for fun 🥺]

[Final Fruit: We have to continue working, so let’s not chat for now.]

Sun Qi’an put her phone down, full of question marks in her head. Just then, another round of news broadcasts came.

“In order to eliminate the pollution, our city’s professionals will conduct special artificial rainfall. If residents notice unusual weather, there’s no need to panic…”

Sun Qi’an curiously got out of bed. She leaned on the IV stand and walked to the window.

She gently pulled open the curtains.

A ray of clear red light poured into the room, gently flowing on the floor.

It was mid-afternoon, still some time before dusk. But the entire sky was ablaze with the redness of sunset, with thin clouds surging like a layer of red veil.

Although the clouds were thin as gauze, sparkling raindrops kept falling. No thunder or darkness in sight; they refracted the brilliance of the sky, sprinkling like gemstones through the golden-red sunlight.

For the first time in her life, Sun Qi’an saw rain so beautifully.

She took out her phone, found a suitable angle, and took a good photo.

[Let Me See Your Heart: [Image]]

[Let Me See Your Heart: Pay attention to work-life balance. The view outside is beautiful~]

[Let Me See Your Heart: Suitable for couples to enjoy together~]

The Great Celestial Master above let out a disgruntled sigh.

“She said it’s suitable for couples to enjoy together~” Yin Ren cast the rain spell in disappointment. “I wanted to see it from below! Even Sun Qi’an knows about work-life balance. How does that saying go? All work and no play…”

Zhong Chengshuo was controlling the light of the Karma Lantern. “Increased workload at the end of the year is normal for businesses.”

Transporting the survivors from the Other Side to the mortal realm was undoubtedly a massive project. Considering Shian’s medical capabilities and the need for secrecy, the entire process would take four days. In the meantime, Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo returned to the mortal realm first to deal with the spreading corruption from Sunken Society.

In the past, they had no way to deal with such corruption. But now, as “gods”, their abilities were naturally beyond comparison.

Zhong Chengshuo was responsible for spreading a weakened version of the authority of Fear, freezing the Evil Force in place, and preventing them from invading the human body. Then Yin Ren took action, devouring them all.

As for the rainfall, it was just for show—Yin Ren had to create some clouds and mist to stretch out his colossal form.

“Now that this task is done, there shouldn’t be any more work, right?” The flock of wings tensed nervously.

“Xiang Jiang and Xiang Hai are still missing, and Shian’s tracking of Wei Huaqian and Sunken Society must continue. But capturing the fierce ghosts and dealing with Sunken Society are the daily tasks of Shian,” Zhong Chengshuo said, pushing up his glasses. “We don’t necessarily have to participate.”

Yin Ren pondered for a moment. During the battle with Love, the twin ghosts’ vitality was greatly damaged. Even if they managed to escape back to the human realm, it was uncertain whether they could maintain their position as an A-A level evil. It was best to leave it to Shian.

“Accompany me on vacation!” Yin Ren’s voice stirred echoes in the clouds.

……

The winter drizzle soaked the ground, seeping into the soil, but it couldn’t reach Shian’s underground base.

The passage to the Other Side had been opened by Qi Xin for a full four days, and at this moment, the last missing person was also sent out of the tunnel.

Li Nian stood by the tunnel, staring intently at the darkness.

Today, he wasn’t dressed as simply as usual. Both his coat and shirt fit much better, showing signs of having been carefully pressed. At first, he wanted to take off the wedding ring. As he was about to remove it, Professor Li’s eyebrows twitched slightly, and he put it back on, nervously fiddling with it.

Next to him, Fu Xingchuan said, “…Isn’t that enough? Your fingers are almost worn out.”

Li Nian stared coldly at Fu Xingchuan, who instantly stepped back half a step.

Finally, a woman’s leg emerged from the passage.

Fu Xingchuan glanced at Li Nian from the corner of his eye, but Li Nian remained motionless. The medical staff beside them quickly brought out a prepared blanket and covered the person’s naked body.

Fu Xingchuan recognized that face—it was Zhong Chengfeng, who had been missing for nearly thirty years.

Having not felt the touch of the human world for many years, Zhong Chengfeng tightly wrapped the blanket around herself and stumbled in place, almost falling down on the spot. However, she still stood strong, her eyes constantly scanning the surroundings, tears rapidly moistening in them.

Shian’s medical team operated in an orderly manner and quickly guided her away.

Only now did Li Nian step forward and stop right in front of the passage.

The one who emerged this time was Meng Huai.

Her steps were steadier than Zhong Chengfeng’s, and as soon as she was wrapped in the blanket, her gaze focused on the person in front of her.

“… ” She frowned slowly in front of Li Nian.

Meanwhile, Li Nian stood silently, like a statue.

“You didn’t even buy me a bouquet of flowers.” After a long pause, Meng Huai spoke. “It’s been so many years, Xiao Li, yet your romantic cells haven’t grown at all.”

“I don’t know how to choose,” Li Nian said.

“I know.” Meng Huai said, “I’ll take you to choose in a couple of days.”

“Mm.”

“Sorry, I couldn’t bring the ring and bracelet.”

“I’ll buy them again.” Li Nian smiled somewhat awkwardly.

Fu Xingchuan was beside them, audibly gasping for air through his teeth. Meng Huai’s gaze shifted.

“Oh shit, Fu Xingchuan, how did you become so mature!” Meng Huai’s expression of sentiment vanished upon seeing Fu Xingchuan. “Oh, congratulations on becoming a minister. Congratulations, congratulations! Your dream has come true; are you happy?”

Fu Xingchuan forced a smile on his face and quickly left the scene. Meng Huai clicked her tongue, and finally, her gaze drifted back to Li Nian.

“It won’t take long for the check-up. I know my body well enough.” She said, “Wait for me a moment, and then we’ll go home together.”

“Okay.”

---

Xiao Yin: I’m so tired, I’m so exhausted, and I still have to go to work.

Xiao Zhong: Never again consider trying Innocent Thoughts (crossed it off the notebook).

Entering the final stage!

---

Kinky Thoughts:

Aww, I got watery eyed a bit for Li Nian’s reunion with Meng Huai. Despite how long this novel was, as usual with Nian Zhong’s work… I don’t want it to end.

Meng Huai reminds me of Ann.

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