Marvel: The other side of the double-passing door is Devouring the Stars

Chapter 343 Missing Some Business Opportunities

Upon hearing this, Lei Ming's face turned ashen: "Such a thing actually happened! Emperor Yan, do you have any suspects?"

Emperor Yan shook his head: "Too many people know my itinerary; it's impossible to be certain right now."

"So what do you plan to do?"

Emperor Yan pondered for a moment: "I need to investigate secretly and find out the truth. Until then, my identity as Emperor Yan must not be revealed."

Lei Ming nodded: "I understand. So your current identity is..."

"An ordinary merchant, who miraculously survived this pirate hijacking," Emperor Yan said.

Lei Ming looked at Luo Wen: "And what about you?"

Rowan quickly replied, "I'm also a businessman, and I do business with this friend."

Lei Ming smiled slightly: "Very well, then let's leave now. My warship has medical equipment; I can give you a check-up."

The three stepped out of the cell, and the sight outside made Rowan gasp. The Blood Raven's Nest was littered with the corpses of pirates, and the walls bore the scorched marks of lightning. Thunder's attack had clearly been swift and decisive, leaving no survivors.

"Where are the other hostages?" Emperor Yan asked.

"They've been safely rescued and are now all on my warship," Lei Ming replied. "There are thirteen people in total, all merchants and travelers who were abducted in the nearby star system."

They arrived before the warship at the Giant Axe Arena, a vessel even larger than Rowan had imagined. Its silvery-white hull gleamed under the starlight, and the giant axe emblem on its bow exuded a solemn and imposing aura.

After boarding the warship, Lei Ming arranged for them to undergo medical examinations. The medical robot quickly completed the scans and confirmed that the two men were unharmed except for some minor external injuries.

In the lounge, Lei Ming prepared food and drinks for them. This was the first normal meal they had eaten since they were kidnapped.

"Emperor Yan, how is your injury recovering?" Lei Ming asked with concern.

Emperor Yan stretched his body: "It will take a little more time, but I'm mostly recovered."

"That's good." Lei Ming paused for a moment. "Emperor Yan, regarding the matter of the internal traitor, I think you should tell Master Wu Shen. He is the most trustworthy person."

Emperor Yan frowned: "No, now is not the time. I need more evidence."

Lei Ming wanted to say something more, but seeing the resolute expression on Yan Di's face, he ultimately gave up.

"So what are you planning to do next?" Lei Ming asked.

“I want to return to the Giant Axe Arena as a merchant and then investigate in secret,” said the Flame Emperor.

“That’s too dangerous,” Lei Ming shook his head. “If there really is a traitor, you’ll be in danger again once you’re exposed.”

"So I need your help." Emperor Yan looked at Lei Ming, "Help me arrange a plausible identity so I can access enough information."

Lei Ming considered for a moment: "I can arrange for you to become an external consultant for the Giant Axe Arena, specifically handling business affairs. This way, you'll have access to internal information without attracting too much attention."

"That's a good idea," Emperor Yan nodded in agreement.

Rowan listened to their conversation, feeling both nervous and excited. Being able to participate in events of this caliber was both an opportunity and a challenge for him.

"Senior, is there anything I can do to help?" Rowan couldn't help but ask.

Emperor Yan looked at him: "Luo Wen, this matter is dangerous. You can choose to leave."

Rowan shook his head: "No, senior, I want to stay and help you. Although I'm not very strong, I'm still of some use."

Lei Ming sized up the young man: "Young man, you have great courage. However, Emperor Yan is right; this matter is indeed very dangerous."

“I’m not afraid of danger,” Rowan said firmly. “Besides, I also want to see who’s behind this.”

Emperor Yan gave Luo Wen a deep look, then nodded: "Alright, then you will continue to be my business partner."

The warship flew smoothly through the void, its destination the headquarters of the Giant Axe Arena.

Night fell, and silence descended upon the warship. Most people were already resting, with only the crew on duty remaining at their posts.

Emperor Yan walked into the observation room and found Luo Wen still there, gazing at the starry sky.

"Can't sleep?" Emperor Yan walked to his side.

“Yes, senior.” Rowan turned his head. “I’m wondering, can we really find the traitor?”

Emperor Yan gazed at the distant Milky Way: "Yes, the truth will always come to light."

"Senior, aren't you worried? What if..." Rowan was somewhat worried.

“Worrying is useless,” Emperor Yan’s voice was calm. “All we can do is be cautious and proceed step by step. And,” he turned to look at Rowan, “I have a feeling that things will take a turn for the better when we return.”

Luo Wen nodded, feeling inexplicably at ease.

Just then, Lei Ming walked in: "Emperor Yan, we'll arrive at headquarters by noon tomorrow. I've already arranged your identity; you'll join the Giant Axe Arena as a business consultant. All the documents are ready; no one will suspect anything."

"Thank you for your hard work, Lei Ming," Emperor Yan said sincerely.

“No need to be so polite. We’re colleagues; helping each other is only right.” Lei Ming paused for a moment. “However, Emperor Yan, I still hope you can report the situation to Master Martial God as soon as possible. This matter is too significant; we can’t handle it alone.”

Emperor Yan pondered for a moment: "I know your concerns, but now is not the time. Let me gather some evidence first, and we'll proceed once we have solid leads."

Lei Ming sighed, but didn't insist any further. He knew Yan Di's personality; once he made up his mind, it was difficult to change it.

"See you tomorrow then." Lei Ming left the observation room. Yan Di and Luo Wen stayed in the observation room for a while longer before returning to their rooms to rest.

The next morning, the warship entered the star system where the headquarters of the Giant Axe Arena was located. Through the porthole, a huge planet could be seen, covered with countless buildings, resembling a giant city.

"That's the headquarters of the Giant Axe Arena?" Rowan exclaimed in surprise.

"Yes, our home." A complex emotion flashed in Emperor Yan's eyes.

The reception hall of the Giant Axe Martial Arts Arena headquarters was resplendent in gold, with the heroic figures of powerful warriors from past dynasties carved on the hundred-meter-high dome, and various precious weapons and medals of honor hanging on the walls. Sunlight streamed in through the huge crystal windows, casting dappled shadows on the marble floor.

Luo Wen followed behind Lei Ming, gazing up at the magnificent building, his heart filled with awe. He had never imagined that one day he would be able to step into the core area of ​​this holy land of martial artists.

"The identification documents are ready." Lei Ming handed them two beautifully crafted documents. "Yan Huang, Business Consultant, specifically responsible for cooperation with external business groups. Luo Wen, Business Assistant, assisting with daily business matters."

Emperor Yan took the document, looked at the pseudonym "Yan Huang" on it, and a slight smile appeared on his lips: "Yan Huang... what a coincidental name."

“I think this name suits you very well,” Rowan said shrewdly. “It maintains your original dignity without causing any unnecessary associations.”

Lei Ming nodded: "Luo Wen is right. I've also arranged your accommodations at the Red Maple Apartments in the business district. It's where external business consultants and technical experts live; no one will pay too much attention to you."

"Lei Ming, thank you for your thoughtful arrangements," Emperor Yan said sincerely.

“Don’t be so polite.” Lei Ming looked around and lowered his voice. “You guys go and familiarize yourselves with the surroundings. Contact me anytime if you need anything. But remember, be careful until you find solid evidence.”

After bidding farewell to Lei Ming, Emperor Yan and Luo Wen headed to the Red Maple Apartments. This was a twenty-story building, its exterior covered in red decorative materials, making it particularly striking in the sunlight. The apartment's interior was elegantly decorated and fully equipped; it was indeed a pleasant place to stay.

They were assigned to adjacent rooms on the fifteenth floor. Rowan's room, though smaller, was well-lit and overlooked the entire training area of ​​the arena. Emperor Yan's room was larger and included a separate office area.

"Senior, where do you think we should begin our investigation?" Luo Wen asked in Emperor Yan's room.

Emperor Yan walked to the window and gazed at the scenery outside: "First, we need to understand the current power structure. Let's see what changes have occurred in the various factions since my disappearance."

"So, who are the people we need to contact?" Rowan pulled out a small notebook, ready to take notes.

“The commerce department is a good starting point,” Emperor Yan said thoughtfully. “There’s a high turnover of people there, and the information is quite abundant. Besides, given our current status, it’s natural for us to reach out to them.”

Luo Wen quickly took notes, then said, "Senior, I suggest we split up. You contact the higher-ups, and I'll talk to the lower-level employees. This way we can get more comprehensive information."

Emperor Yan gave him an approving look: "You've considered things very carefully. But remember, we must never reveal our true purpose."

“I understand.” Rowan closed his notebook. “Then let’s begin.”

At 2 PM, the business department of the Giant Axe Arena was exceptionally busy. This was a crucial hub connecting internal and external operations, responsible for handling various business collaborations and resource procurement.

Emperor Yan arrived at the business department as the newly appointed business consultant and was quickly given a warm welcome. The department head was a middle-aged man named Chen Wei, slightly overweight, with a kind smile, but his eyes revealed shrewdness.

"Mr. Yanhuang, welcome to our team!" Chen Wei warmly shook Yandi's hand. "I've heard you've made significant achievements in the business world, and our department happens to have several important projects that require your professional guidance."

"You flatter me. I will do my best to assist the department," Emperor Yan replied. "However, I'm new here and not very familiar with the arena yet. I hope Supervisor Chen can provide me with guidance."

"Not at all, we all learn from each other." Chen Wei guided Emperor Yan on a tour of the department. "Our business department is now under the jurisdiction of Elder Sak. Elder Sak attaches great importance to commercial development and often personally oversees our work."

Upon hearing the name Sak, Emperor Yan was startled, but outwardly remained calm: "Elder Sak, I have long admired your name. He must be a leader of great charisma."

“Of course!” Chen Wei’s tone was full of admiration. “After Elder Sack took over the business operations, our department’s performance improved by 30%. He said he wanted the Giant Axe Arena to not only dominate in martial arts but also to take a leading position in business.”

"Take over?" Emperor Yan keenly caught the word. "Who was in charge of business operations before?"

Chen Wei's expression darkened slightly: "Elder Yan was in charge before, but unfortunately..." He shook his head, "After Elder Yan's death, Elder Sak voluntarily took on this responsibility. To be honest, Elder Yan's death was a huge blow to us all."

“I’ve heard that Elder Yan is a highly respected elder,” Emperor Yan said tentatively.

“Yes, Elder Yandi is a very good person and cares a lot about his subordinates,” Chen Wei sighed. “But to be honest, Elder Sak is definitely more adept at business management. Elder Yandi is more focused on tradition, which sometimes causes him to miss some business opportunities.”

Emperor Yan sneered inwardly, but did not show it. It seemed that Sak had indeed done a lot of work to tarnish his reputation after his disappearance.

"Are all departments in the arena functioning normally now?" Emperor Yan continued to inquire.

“Most of them are fine,” Chen Wei thought for a moment, “However, some projects that Elder Yandi used to be in charge of have indeed been affected. Elder Sak is reorganizing them, and I believe things will return to normal soon.”

Just then, a young female employee rushed over: "Manager Chen, Elder Sack requests an immediate report on last month's financial statements."

"Coming right away." Chen Wei turned to Emperor Yan, "Mr. Yanhuang, I'm sorry, Elder Sak is waiting for my report. Why don't you take a look around the department and familiarize yourself with the environment?"

"No problem, you can go ahead and do your work." Emperor Yan nodded.

After Chen Wei left, Yan Di began to walk around the department, observing the surroundings. He noticed that almost all the important documents and project materials bore Sak's instructions, while there was almost no trace of the projects he had previously been in charge of.

Meanwhile, Rowan was also conducting his own investigation. He chose the arena's cafeteria as his starting point, because it was the place where information was exchanged most frequently.

The canteen was located in the center of the arena, simply decorated but clean and tidy. It was afternoon tea time, and many employees were resting and chatting there. Luo Wen bought a coffee and chose a seat near a few junior employees chatting.

"I heard Elder Sack has landed another big project, this time in cooperation with the Galaxy Chamber of Commerce," said a young man in a blue uniform.

“Elder Sack is truly remarkable. Since he took over the business operations, our income has increased significantly,” another person chimed in.

"It's a pity that Elder Yandi perished; he was a very good person," the third person said with some emotion.

“Yes, but to be honest, Elder Yan is indeed not as good at business as Elder Sak.” The first person lowered his voice. “I heard from a friend in the Ministry of Commerce that when Elder Yan was in charge, many projects progressed slowly.”

Rowan frowned; these words sounded like they were being deliberately spread. He got up and walked to another table, where several more senior employees were sitting.

(End of this chapter)