Shrek Departs Overnight

"So..." Flender's voice was hoarse. "Committee Member Meng, did you come tonight to force us to reveal Xiao Wu's whereabouts? Or... to sever ties with us at Shrek?"

Meng Shenji shook his head, a trace of conflict flashing through his eyes. "Flender, the Heaven Dou Empire will not abandon any Soul Master who belongs to the empire. But—"

He shifted the subject, his tone turning even graver. "Before returning to the empire, we cannot be too conspicuous. Without the deterrence of the Clear Sky Douluo, no one knows whether Spirit Hall will take desperate risks and attack you. So, I hope..."

He looked at Flender and enunciated each word. "We act separately."

"Separately?" Flender froze.

"Under cover of night, we'll help you leave quietly," Meng Shenji explained. "Do not tell anyone your exact route. That way, even if Spirit Hall intercepts and questions us, we won't be able to reveal your whereabouts."

Flender fell silent. He looked at Yu Xiaogang again.

Yu Xiaogang kept his head lowered, his brows tightly furrowed. Only after a long while did he raise his head, meet Flender's gaze, and slowly nod.

He agreed.

Seeing this, Meng Shenji took a pitch-black token from his robes and handed it to Flender. An ancient-looking character for "Heaven" was carved on its front, while intricate patterns covered its back.

"This is a Heaven Dou Empire Royal Secret Edict," Meng Shenji said solemnly. "Once you enter Heaven Dou Empire territory, if you encounter danger, show this token and you will receive the empire's full official assistance. Remember, it may only be used at a life-or-death moment."

Flender accepted the token. It felt heavy in his hand, though he did not know whether it was the weight of the metal or the weight of this favor. He carefully put it