The Five Animals Foundation, the Secret of Organ Refining (Thanks for all the votes, fellow readers. Hope everyone has a happy 2026!)

"That's the one!"

Diao Dharma Protector slapped the armrest hard.

"Though he's still young, he's already made a name for himself. His strength is every bit as formidable as Gong Tian's.

Given time, he'll surely surpass his master.

As long as he lives, he'll remain a thorn in our side!"

One of the followers said anxiously,

"Sir, do you have a plan?

Yang Ning has Gong Tian backing him, and Gong Tian may already be an Organ Refining expert.

Our sect's Attendants and followers at the Organ Refining realm and above are short-handed at the moment, and each has urgent duties they cannot leave.

Bone Forging martial artists can't inflict a fatal wound on Yang Ning.

Even if we could spare people, making a move against Gong Tian would cause quite a stir.

That would expose our sect to the public, running counter to the plans and principles we've always followed.

What are we to do?"

"I already have a foolproof plan."

Diao Dharma Protector spoke with certainty.

"Free up some men immediately and assist the Shen Family's man. That's all."

"The Shen Family?"

Someone cried out in surprise.

"Have you persuaded Shen Jinghui, the Shen Family's direct descendant, to join us?"

"No."

Diao Dharma Protector slowly shook his head.

"It's Shen Lian, a collateral member of the Shen Family.

Shen Jinghui is shrewd and still being courted, but Shen Lian has already devoted himself wholeheartedly to our sect.

He has some connections and influence in the Outer City, so now is the perfect time to put them to use."

Another man hesitated.

"But Shen Lian has always been a man of poor character, a thorough scoundrel, and he's weak as well..."

"Of course I know Shen Lian is nothing but a useless waste.

But those who accomplish great things