Changes in the Political Landscape

Lu Chen looked at the jade pendant, then at Yun Qingyue's concerned eyes. He did not refuse, instead tucking it into his robes. "Thank you."

After chatting a little longer, Lu Chen reminded her of the precautions for closed-door cultivation before rising to leave for the Evil-Quelling Guard's headquarters.

Zhao Tieying, Gu Mingxuan, and the other core members had long since assembled and were waiting.

"Duke!" everyone saluted.

Lu Chen waved a hand and said directly, "Select five hundred elites. Their cultivation must be at least mid-Xiantian. They must excel at concealment, assassination, and coordination. There is a secret mission tomorrow that will require us to penetrate deep behind enemy lines."

Excitement flashed through Zhao Tieying's eyes. "This subordinate will select them at once! I guarantee they'll all be top hands!"

Gu Mingxuan was more composed. "Duke, where is the target? This subordinate can prepare the appropriate equipment in advance."

"Wolf Owl's rear camp—the grain depot," Lu Chen said. "Be swift, be ruthless, and sow chaos. Do not linger once the task is complete. Break out immediately to the southeast and join the main army at the front."

"Understood!" The two accepted their orders and departed.

Lu Chen stood alone atop the drill ground's raised platform, watching the setting sun in the west as he silently calculated.

Demon Devil Lifespan: years.

That number was enough to support a major war.

But the Longevity realm... was ultimately a hurdle.

Though Fu Ku had fled with grave injuries, he would surely bear a grudge.

The Undead Monarch had lost three envoys and would never let the matter rest. And then there was the Shadow Council, lurking in the dark like venomous snakes.

And... what was the Third Prince's faction doing in court right now?

With news of the great victory