The next morning, leaving Valkyrie asleep at home, Su Ming began his operation.
First, he went to the S.P.E.A.R. Agency to see Zheng Xian. If they were going to deal with the coming great Multiversal Level merger, he had to discuss it with Old Zheng. While he was at it, he could sound him out and ask whether their research on the Celestials had made any progress.
After all, China had begun researching the Celestials as early as Zhang Heng of the Han Dynasty—over a thousand years before the West. The foundation was there.
Following a familiar route, Su Ming flew into the Sky Ring base, greeting several Chinese Heroes he knew along the way. Smiling, he entered Old Zheng's office.
It was the same as ever. The director's office was thick with smoke. Whether from staying up all night or from all the smoking, Zheng Xian's eyes were as red as a rabbit's.
"Old Zheng, aren't you working yourself too hard?" Su Ming threw open the door to air out the room and switched on the ventilation fan. "Even I, the Sorcerer Supreme, don't have as much pressure as you. Even if the world ends, I'll be the one standing in front. What are you worrying about?"
"Ah, Deathstroke, my situation is different from yours." Zheng Xian, who had been standing by the window looking out at the sea, returned to his desk and stubbed out his cigarette in the ashtray. He gave a tired smile. "Though humble, I dare not forget my country's troubles; even when matters are settled, one must wait until the coffin is closed. Sitting in my position, I can't sleep until so many things are truly settled."
Su Ming sat down on the sofa, took out a packet of tea leaves, and slapped it