Running into a Familiar Face

The council chamber of the Lingyin Temple Judgment Hall.

Ten men and women, each bearing an emblem of crossed holy swords on their chest, sat around a standard round table, their expressions solemn and stern.

Another twenty-odd people stood to one side. Judging by their uniforms, they were all Judgment Officers.

Those seated around the table gave concise reports, swiftly outlining recent events and matters that required attention.

At the head of the table sat an elderly mage in a loose robe of interwoven gold and red.

This elderly mage was none other than Tang Zhong, Chief Judge of the Lingyin Temple Judgment Hall!

Tang Zhong listened to their reports and nodded silently.

Once those around the table finished their reports, they all turned toward Tang Zhong, awaiting his orders.

The chamber fell silent, save for the sound of fingers tapping against the tabletop.

Tang Zhong lowered his head, then issued his orders a moment later.

"Lu Junhe."

"Present, Chief Judge!"

"Go to Japan and find out whether the creature that attacked that fishing village was a wild demon beast or one of their summoned beasts."

"Yes!"

"Jiang Li, you can close the net on your end. That Advanced Mage... kill them on the spot. There's no need to keep them alive any longer."

"Yes, Chief Judge!"

After giving several orders, Tang Zhong looked at Tang Yue, who stood to one side.

"Tang Yue."

Tang Yue wore her hair in a high bun, revealing her exquisitely beautiful face in full.

Today, her usual softness and warmth were absent. Her expression was frosty and solemn, without a trace of a smile, lending her a valiant air.

"Have you uncovered anything about the Black Vatican hiding in Bo City?"

Tang Zhong's voice was calm, but his question was deeply serious.

"Chief Judge,