Realm of the Night God

In the New Genesis World, every city had its own Administrative Bureau, which managed the affairs of the city, with the Director of Administration being the highest authority within the Administrative Bureau.

Any sect wishing to construct large temples, propagate its doctrines, and recruit believers needed official approval. Without recognition from the authorities, construction was forbidden and could even be considered as cult activities, subject to severe crackdowns.

Smaller temples outside the city, if unapproved, were also deemed irregular. However, the authorities often turned a blind eye to these smaller temples, as they were numerous and of little consequence. As long as they didn't cause trouble, the authorities seldom intervened.

The presence of sects posed a significant threat to the authorities. However, dealing with them posed a challenge; it was impractical to eradicate all sects completely—at least not for the time being.

In order to maintain peace and stability in the world and strive for a balance, the authorities employed various methods, one of which was controlling the number of large temples.

Lecheng didn't have many talisman masters, but there were still numerous believers in the Fu ancestor. For a sect, more believers meant greater influence. Hence, the Fu Sect had long desired to construct a larger Fu ancestor temple to expand its influence and attract more believers.

Elder Zhang had approached the Director of Administration several times regarding this matter, but to no avail. While the Director didn't outright refuse, neither did he approve, engaging in a game of cat and mouse, causing delays each time.

In an effort to secure a favorable location, Elder Zhang went as far as sending his disciple, Wang Yiming, to support the Spirit Police. This not only provided training for his disciple but also served as a demonstration to the Director of Administration, hoping to secure a piece of land for rebuilding a large Fu ancestor temple.

Elder Zhang employed various tactics to secure the land, even contemplating more aggressive measures, but he refrained due to regulations and the complexities of the world's diverse sects and organizations. If the government couldn't stand firm in such circumstances, chaos would ensue. Elder Zhang feared that taking a confrontational approach would ultimately backfire.

Despite his efforts, Elder Zhang hadn't achieved the desired results. However, Captain Luo's words undoubtedly stirred his interest.

While tempted, he didn't want to appear too eager, especially given the circumstances. Captain Luo's proposition made him uncomfortable, especially since Captain Luo unexpectedly sided with Yang Haoran. Therefore, he expressed his discontent.

However, Yang Haoran's reminder made him furrow his brows. With a moment's contemplation, he understood Yang Haoran's implication.

Captain Luo sought to resolve their conflicts and provide him with an opportunity to resolve his current predicament without losing face.

Thinking along these lines, it wouldn't be inaccurate to say that Captain Luo was on his side, as he was resolving Elder Zhang's troubles.

Elder Zhang remained composed, refraining from further comment. Observing this, Yang Haoran's smile grew broader. He remained silent, opting instead to sip his tea.

Meanwhile, Captain Luo directed his gaze towards the emotionally charged Jiang Die.

"Master Jiang, let's not get ahead of ourselves. I have a question for you: what was your purpose in spreading the teachings of your Fu Sect?"

"Why, to propagate the doctrines of our Fu Sect, to attract more believers to our deity!" Jiang Die replied passionately, his voice filled with emotion.

"In that case, the question is simple: what would it signify if your Fu Sect had a large Fu ancestor temple in Lecheng? I believe you understand without my having to say it. I know you've had grievances in the past, which is why the authorities have allocated this land specifically to compensate you."

"Over these years, though you've endured hardships, those very trials have bestowed upon the Fu Sect a grand Fu ancestor temple. I believe all talisman masters in Lecheng, including your senior brother Zhang, would be grateful to you for that."

"Furthermore, with the presence of this grand Fu ancestor temple, your Fu Sect will undoubtedly attract more believers, and the credit for this achievement will be yours to claim. As a devout believer, one should feel proud and honored to contribute to the Fu ancestor's cause, rather than dwelling on past grievances. What do you think?"

Captain Luo's words triggered a change in Jiang Die's expression. She furrowed her brows, her thoughts unclear, yet she didn't refute Captain Luo's words.

Jiang Die's initial missionary efforts, aimed at expanding the Fu Sect's following, revealed her devoutness.

Had she not been a devout believer, such tasks could have been assigned to yellow talisman masters, freeing black talisman masters like herself from such duties. Yet, her commitment led her to venture into remote areas for missionary work.

It was precisely because of her devoutness that Captain Luo's words had such a profound impact on her.

As a devout believer, she wouldn't harbor any complaints for her faith. Even if it meant sacrificing her life, she'd willingly offer it for her beliefs and her deity.

The confrontation with the serpent demon today was merely to vent frustration. If someone was willing to pay for past grievances, it was a different matter altogether.

Once the benefits were sufficient, what significance did past grievances hold?

Jiang Die took a deep breath, gradually calming her emotions. She spoke solemnly, "If Captain Luo can indeed provide our Fu Sect with land to build a grand Fu ancestor temple, then I will no longer dwell on past grievances."

With these words, Elder Zhang felt relieved. Jiang Die, a black talisman master of their Lecheng Fu Sect, holding her ground eased his concerns. If she hadn't relented, it would have been difficult for him as her senior brother.

Captain Luo's words had changed Jiang Die's stance, making the situation much easier for Elder Zhang to handle.

"Ah, now that Jiang Die isn't holding grudges, this Old Man has nothing more to say. I just hope, Captain Luo, that you won't deceive this Old Man." Elder Zhang sighed, appearing somewhat resigned.

His resignation wasn't entirely feigned. The current situation, compounded by Yang Haoran's presence as the Underworld Envoy, truly left him feeling helpless.

Conversely, Jiang Die's decision didn't evoke a sense of helplessness in him. Rather, he felt fortunate.

Captain Luo's smile grew broader. With Fu Sect relenting, he felt that the matter was nearing resolution, bringing him considerable relief.

"Rest assured, Zhang. As I've said before, as long as the demands aren't unreasonable, I can definitely settle this matter for you. I guarantee it," Captain Luo reassured with a smile.

Elder Zhang nodded stoically. "I trust Captain Luo's integrity. Since he's promised, there should be no issue with this matter. As for the previous plot of land, let it be. I'll need to discuss with everyone before deciding on a new location."

The implications of Elder Zhang's words were clear to all present. The previously applied-for land was likely small, chosen out of fear that a larger plot might not pass scrutiny. Now presented with an excellent opportunity to select a better location, he intended to make the most of it.

With that, Elder Zhang glanced at Jiang Die before rising to leave.

However, at that moment, Yang Haoran gently set down his teacup and asked with a smile, "Why the rush, Elder Zhang?"

Elder Zhang stiffened, while Jiang Die and Wang Yiming looked at Yang Haoran with unease. Captain Luo and Deputy Captain Zhou exchanged puzzled glances. To them, since the issue seemed resolved, why did Yang Haoran speak up now?