Who wouldn't want a safe, stable city? But in most cases, that was impossible in this world.
After all, in the Eastern Kingdom, the combined strength of all those chaotic factions definitely far surpassed the government's. The titles granted by the True God Churches were both the government's "proof of strength" and "license for privilege," as well as the cost paid to keep them stable.
"Since they're True God Churches, it's only natural for them to have a few 'free zones.' Raising alien races or hiring local laborers is perfectly justified. Even if people die in their 'territory,' it's normal for the government to be unable to interfere."
Some things were conceded again and again. Once they reached a certain point, they became completely beyond saving.
Openly allowing a state within a state was something the government could never accept. Yet during the first few months after Lu PingAn came to this world, he had heard many similar legends and stories, most of which were true.
Even within areas under governmental jurisdiction, the companies and organizations affiliated with those major churches often infiltrated deeply. The gymnasium where Lu PingAn had become a Runner had been funded by the Runner God, while the hospital where he had received treatment years ago had been an Investment project of an organization under Lady Lin.
Public facilities, welfare services, even people's daily necessities—these major factions had their hands in all of them. Their existence might carry some positive significance, but once their actions went unchecked and they pursued only profit, they would naturally bring endless disasters.
The most obvious example was that Steam Factories had slaves, and the organ trade was an open secret. But why had it never been eradicated? Was a crime of that scale still not enough to mobilize the entire