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

She will send back more precise real-time intelligence before our operation and coordinate with us from within and without.

"Suzaku is back too?"

Chen Yang remembered Luanfeng's younger sister, who was also a highly skilled Special Administration agent, adept at infiltration and espionage.

"Yes, she came back from abroad specifically for this mission."

The phoenix nodded.

"With her ahead of us, our operation will go much more smoothly."

Chen Yang understood that the Special Administration Bureau was serious this time and was well-prepared.

He thought for a moment and asked.

"So what's the action plan? A direct assault? Or is there some other strategy?"

The Path of the Prisoner Ox.

"Based on current intelligence and possible feedback from Suzaku, the initial plan is as follows."

Our main force will launch a surprise raid from multiple directions to clear out the surface ruins at the designated time, attracting and tying down the enemy's defenses. Meanwhile, a small elite team, consisting of you, Minister Jiang, myself, Luanfeng, and others, will operate based on the accurate entrance information provided by Zhuque.

Infiltrate the core underground area to carry out decapitation and destruction of critical facilities. The goal is to achieve a swift victory, ending the battle before they can react, mobilize more forces, or activate their self-destruct mechanisms.

Jiang He looked at Chen Yang.

"So, Chen Yang, what are your thoughts or additions to this plan?"

After a moment's thought, Chen Yang felt that the plan was simple and direct, in line with the characteristics of a surprise attack, and the key lay in the accuracy of intelligence and the strength and speed of the elite squad.

He nodded.

"The plan is feasible. The key lies in accurate access points, intelligence on the underground structure, and our response speed after the breach. I'm fine on my end."

Seeing that Chen Yang agreed, Jiang He breathed a sigh of relief and smiled.

"Then it's settled! We'll discuss the details on the way tomorrow. Today... I'll trouble your esteemed establishment to have a good meal and relax!"

Just then, Wang Xuan strode in again and said respectfully.

"Master, Master Huang and Elder Liu Yu have arrived at the Yingbin Pavilion. The banquet is ready. Please, Master and all distinguished guests, move in."

"Okay, we'll head over now."

Chen Yang stood up and gestured for Jiang He and the others to join him.

"Minister Jiang, gentlemen, please."

Jiang He and the others also stood up with smiles.

The group walked out of the reception room and, led by Wang Xuan, headed toward the "Welcoming Pavilion," which was located on another quiet mountainside.

Along the way, we passed several martial arts arenas and disciple training areas. In the arenas, many Qingwei Sect disciples were either practicing in pairs, their moves were precise and skillful; or they were sitting cross-legged, breathing deeply and steadily; or they were listening attentively to their senior brothers explaining the key points of the techniques.

Most of these disciples were young, but they were all full of energy and vitality, with their eyes revealing a desire for cultivation and vigor. Their shouts during the practice were neat and powerful, and they had a strong momentum.

As Jiang He walked and looked around, his eyes filled with increasing admiration, and he couldn't help but sigh to Chen Yang beside him.

"Chen Yang, how long has it been since you founded your sect? Yet your disciples already possess such talent! I see that these young people have excellent potential and character; given time, they will surely become pillars of society! It's truly enviable!"

He said it half-jokingly and half-seriously.

"Once these children have completed their studies, could we... give them priority consideration to work for our Special Administration Bureau? We're really short of fresh blood with real skills and a solid foundation!"

Upon hearing this, Chen Yang smiled and said frankly.

"If Minister Jiang speaks up, then of course we can. The Qingwei Sect is not a place for closed-door learning. After completing their studies, disciples should go out into the world to gain experience, slay demons and monsters, and protect the region. Cooperating with the Special Administration Bureau is a very good platform."

He then changed the subject and offered his own ideas.

"However, it's impossible for all my disciples to go. How about this, we can establish a long-term cooperation mechanism. The Special Administration Bureau can periodically issue some 'assistance missions' to our Qingwei Sect based on the needs and difficulty of the mission, and provide corresponding merits or resources as rewards."

I will encourage and select some disciples who need experience or are interested in this area to serve in the Special Administration Bureau for a period of time in the form of a 'mission'.

During their service, they were under the command of the Special Administration Bureau and completed their missions. After their service period ended, they could decide for themselves whether to continue their development within the Special Administration Bureau or return to the sect for further study. We grant our disciples complete freedom of choice.

This not only provides the Special Administration with talent, but also gives the trainees diverse career paths and choices.

Jiang He's eyes lit up immediately upon hearing this.

"This is a great idea! It's fair, voluntary, and mutually beneficial! A gentleman's word!"

Chen Yang smiled.

"We at the top management can set the principles for this cooperation framework. The specific details, such as task types, reward standards, and personnel rotation cycles, can be negotiated and drafted by specialized personnel below. After all, this is not a one-off deal; it needs to be established as a stable system."

Jiang He nodded repeatedly.

“Yes, yes, let the staff handle the details. We just need to focus on the overall direction. In the future, I can also set up a permanent liaison office in your Qingwei faction and assign someone to be stationed there to facilitate communication and coordination. From now on, our two families will truly be ‘one of us’ working closely together!”

Chen Yang then made the suggestion.

"Since we're going to cooperate deeply, Minister Jiang, you can't be stingy with the new armor and gene-based medicines you've developed. My disciples on dangerous missions need to be well-equipped and supported."

"Of course, in return, my Qingwei Sect can provide several more batches of outstanding disciples to support us. Once you've achieved mass production, you must prioritize supplying our people."

Jiang He patted his chest and guaranteed it.

"No problem! That's a must! We're all in the same boat now, so of course we should prioritize our own people when we get good stuff! Once this operation is over, I'll urge the research institute to speed things up, and the first batch of finished products will definitely be given to your Qingwei faction first!"

Qiuniu, standing to the side, chimed in in a muffled voice.

"Sect Leader Chen, I have another request. If someone in our Special Administration Bureau takes a liking to one of your talents and sincerely wishes to take him as a disciple and teach him their skills... I wonder if your sect would allow that?"

Chen Yang glanced at Qiuniu, then at Jianghe, and said readily.

"As long as this disciple has not yet formally become an apprentice of my Qingwei Sect, or if his master does not object, and the disciple himself is willing, we will naturally be happy to see it happen. On the path of cultivation, it is always good to learn from others."

But this must be based on mutual consent and an open and aboveboard approach. Undermining someone's efforts by secretly poaching them, breaking the rules, will only damage the relationship.

Qiuniu laughed heartily.

"Sect Leader Chen, rest assured, we understand the rules! We will definitely follow them!"

Amidst laughter and conversation, the group arrived at the "Welcome Pavilion".

This is a standalone, antique-style three-story pavilion with flying eaves, bracket sets, carved beams, and painted rafters, nestled among ancient pines and cypresses. The environment is serene and elegant, embodying both the rustic charm of the Qingwei School and the dignified grandeur befitting a distinguished guest. At this moment, Master Huang and Liu Yu were already waiting at the pavilion's entrance. Upon seeing Chen Yang arrive with his guests, they quickly stepped forward and greeted him with clasped hands.

"Minister Jiang, your presence is an honor! I am so sorry for not welcoming you sooner!"

Master Huang was all smiles.

"Master Huang, Elder Liu, you're too kind."

Jiang He smiled and returned the greeting.

Chen Yang briefly introduced the unfamiliar faces from the Special Administration Bureau to both sides. After exchanging a few pleasantries, Master Huang stepped aside to lead the way.

"The banquet is ready. Minister Jiang, distinguished guests, please come in!"

The group entered the largest banquet hall on the first floor of the reception hall. The hall was elegantly decorated, with a large round table of rosewood, large enough to seat more than ten people, placed in the center. Exquisite tableware and several appetizers were already set on the table. Through the side windows, one could see the lush mountain scenery outside, which was breathtaking.

"Please take your seats, everyone."

As the host, Chen Yang invited everyone to sit down.

He deliberately arranged for Wang Xuan to stay at the table as well, placing him in the lower seat. Wang Xuan understood that his master intended for him to have more contact with these important figures and broaden his horizons, so he behaved with exceptional composure and politeness, serving tea and water and being very attentive to everyone.

Jiang He looked at Wang Xuan, who was young but acted with composure, and smiled at Chen Yang.

"Chen Yang, your apprentice is truly remarkable! I believe he will be a great help to you in the future, and may even become the next pillar of the Qingwei Sect!"

Wang Xuan quickly replied modestly.

"Minister Jiang, you flatter me. I am dull-witted and have relied entirely on my master's teachings and the sect's cultivation. There is still much for me to learn."

Qiuniu also looked Wang Xuan up and down and nodded.

"I noticed this kid at the previous martial arts tournament. He has a solid foundation and a tenacious character; he's a promising talent. If he hadn't already been accepted as a disciple by Sect Leader Chen, I would have shamelessly asked if I could take him as my apprentice!"

These words drew a burst of good-natured laughter from the crowd. Wang Xuan was a little embarrassed by the praise, but still replied respectfully.

"Senior Qiuniu, you flatter me. I am unworthy of such praise."

Chen Yang patted Wang Xuan on the shoulder and smiled at everyone.

"Stop praising him. If you keep praising him, he'll get arrogant. He has good talent, but he has a long way to go and needs to guard against pride and impatience."

Master Huang smiled and gave instructions to the disciples who were standing by.

"The hot dishes can be served now."

Soon, one after another, the disciples brought in dishes that were beautifully presented, fragrant, and delicious, all made with spiritual plants and beasts. The aroma was irresistible, making everyone's mouths water.

Although the Qingwei Sect was newly established, under the management of Master Huang, Liu Yu, and others, all affairs were well-organized. This banquet to entertain distinguished guests fully demonstrated the sect's profound heritage and sincerity in hospitality.

The banquet was filled with a dazzling array of delicious dishes, which were not only visually appealing and delicious but also incredibly appealing.

But what truly moved the special administration officials from Jianghe, Qiuniu, and Luanfeng was that every single dish contained a remarkably pure spiritual energy of heaven and earth!
Whether it's the braised meat of an unknown animal, the stir-fried green vegetables, or the fragrant mushroom soup, once you taste it, not only is the flavor superb, but a gentle spiritual energy also spreads through your stomach, nourishing your meridians, making you feel comfortable all over and invigorating your spirit.

Qiuniu was the first to put down his chopsticks, smacked his lips, and looked at Chen Yang, who was in the main seat, with an expression of disbelief.

"Sect Leader Chen, the spiritual energy in these dishes is far too concentrated!"

"The spiritual energy contained in these is far purer and richer than the 'psychic crops' and 'enhanced beast meat' that our bureau's biological laboratory painstakingly cultivates using special methods! How...did you manage to do this? Do you have some special cultivation secrets?"

Upon hearing this, Master Huang couldn't help but show a proud smile on his face, and then took over the conversation to explain.

"Fellow Daoist Qiuniu, you flatter me. To be honest, we did not deliberately cultivate them in any special way. The spiritual meat on the table was captured by the patrolling disciples in the nearby mountains; these were wild beasts that had naturally transformed and strengthened due to the revival of spiritual energy."

These spiritual vegetables also grow and are harvested naturally in places where spiritual energy gathers in the mountains. You could say they are all 'naturally grown'; we are merely responsible for cooking them.”

"Born naturally?"

Luan Feng's beautiful eyes sparkled with amazement as she exclaimed.

"Then the spiritual energy and the endowments of the creatures in your mountains are truly exceptional! Our Special Administration Bureau has spent a lot of resources simulating the best environment and carefully selecting and cultivating species, yet the produce we produce is still inferior to what you casually grab or gather from your mountains?"

Chen Yang picked up his teacup, took a sip, and said calmly.

“Fellow Daoist Luanfeng, perhaps sometimes, the more we pursue the ultimate in artificial intervention, the easier it is to lose the natural charm. The creation of heaven and earth has its own balance and mystery. Going with the flow may be more effective than forcibly changing it.”

As soon as he finished speaking, Wang Xuan, who had been eagerly anticipating the aroma but restraining himself out of politeness, couldn't help but mutter something under his breath.

"Um... Master, seniors, may we... begin eating now? The food will get cold if we don't eat soon..."

He stared longingly at the delicious food on the table, his throat involuntarily moving. As a disciple, even one personally taught by the sect leader, his daily diet consisted mainly of ordinary spiritual grains and simple medicinal dishes. Such a feast, rich in spiritual energy and exquisitely prepared, was an extremely rare opportunity for him.

Chen Yang glanced at his apprentice, finding it both amusing and somewhat understanding.

He said no more, raised the full glass of wine in front of him, and said loudly.

"It seems everyone has been waiting impatiently. Come, let us raise this glass together, firstly to welcome Minister Jiang and our fellow Daoists from the Special Administration Bureau to our Qingwei Sect; and secondly, to wish our joint operation tomorrow a swift and successful conclusion!"

"Okay! Cheers!"

Jiang He smiled and raised his glass.

Wishing you a successful operation!

Qiu Niu, Luan Feng, and others also raised their glasses.

"Dry!"

Huang Zhenren, Liu Yu, and Wang Xuan also raised their glasses together.

Everyone downed their drinks in one gulp. As the wine entered his throat, Jiang He's eyes widened instantly, his face showing an even more surprised expression than when he had just eaten the spirit meat. He smacked his lips, savoring the aftertaste.

"This wine...this wine is also a spiritual wine?! The taste is mellow and smooth, and after entering the stomach, spiritual energy rises, warming and penetrating straight to the limbs and bones. It is even more effective than the 'energy supplement' that our department uses a special process to purify, and it doesn't have the harsh feeling of a medicine at all! Amazing! Absolutely amazing!"

Liu Yu smiled slightly, with a hint of pride.

"Minister Jiang has excellent taste. This 'Green Pine Brew' is indeed brewed by our Qingwei School. It is made with morning dew from under old pine trees in the mountains, combined with several unique spiritual herbs and fruits, and aged in several natural caves rich in spiritual energy. What do you think, Minister Jiang?"

"This feels so good!"

Jiang He repeatedly praised it, and then asked curiously.

"The most difficult part of brewing this spirit wine is how to perfectly integrate stable spiritual energy into the wine without them conflicting with each other, and also to preserve it for a long time."

Our research group at the institute has conducted numerous experiments, but either the spiritual energy dissipates too quickly, the flavor of the wine is ruined, or the two cannot coexist stably. How...did you manage to do it? (End of Chapter)