"I am convinced wholeheartedly."

Kong Xuan staggered as he landed on the ground, speaking with sincere admiration.

"Who else wishes to step forward?"

Ling Chen's gaze swept around the circle, finally resting on the graceful woman.

"On the Special Envoy's orders, who dares to disobey? From now on, I shall always follow the Special Envoy's lead."

After the shock, the graceful woman revealed a seductive smile. This was her first time meeting such an outstanding young man, and he was only in his early twenties. His future path would undoubtedly be illustrious. If she could forge a connection, although not soaring to success, she would at least receive considerable support.

Not all who joined the Saint family's allied forces were from the main family; many were from branch families, and even some second- and third-rate families from Xuzhou. She came from one such third-rate family, and securing a good relationship with a Ling Family genius like Ling Chen was a significant benefit for her.

"We all shall follow the Special Envoy's lead."

Kong Xuan and the others bowed slightly toward Ling Chen.

"Since everyone has agreed, then it seems there is no issue. However, let me say upfront, my orders must be obeyed by all. If anyone disobeys or feigns compliance, don't blame me for being unforgiving."

Ling Chen raised an eyebrow, his presence akin to a treasure sword drawn, emanating a destructive aura that made everyone feel as if the apocalypse had arrived, paralyzing their bodies.

"His strength is far beyond what it seems!"

The graceful woman and Kong Xuan held their breath, realizing they had underestimated Ling Chen.

"Rest assured, Special Envoy, we will follow orders." Everyone's expressions became increasingly respectful.

"Alright, you three stay, the rest may withdraw for now."

Ling Chen glanced around the group before speaking.

"Yes."

None dared to defy, and one by one, they withdrew.

Once everyone had left, Ling Chen led the three to a secluded pavilion and sat down.

Investigating the case didn't require many people; quality was preferred over quantity. Therefore, Ling Chen only kept the three strongest individuals.

"Regarding the inner traitor, what are your thoughts?"

Ling Chen glanced at the three; they had been investigating the traitor before but dared not proceed further due to the complexity of the issue, though they had gathered considerable intelligence.

"On the matter of the traitor, we have only scratched the surface without substantial evidence. But since the Special Envoy inquires, we will speak frankly."

The graceful woman appeared much more casual, candidly stating, "White Dragon Half Saint, Heaven Cloud Half Saint, and Water Heart Half Saint are all suspects, but the greatest suspicion lies with Water Heart Half Saint."

"Oh?" Ling Chen raised an eyebrow, then said calmly, "Continue."

Seeing Ling Chen's nonchalance, the graceful woman became bolder. "Everyone knows Water Heart Half Saint is from the Lan Family, a family known for their disguise techniques. Water Heart Half Saint himself is elusive, possessing multiple identities. Hence, we believe he is the most suspicious."

"What about the other two?"

Ling Chen found some sense in her words, acknowledging the Lan Family's skill in disguise. Lan Xingling's disguise on him had not yet been recognized.

"As for the other two, they don't seem particularly suspicious."

The three exchanged glances before nodding together.

"Alright, in a few days, the Allied Forces are likely to undertake a significant operation, led by White Dragon Half Saint, Heaven Cloud Half Saint, and Water Heart Half Saint. At that time, you three will join me in the operation."

Ling Chen looked at the graceful woman and Kong Xuan, speaking calmly.

Upon hearing this, the three's expressions changed; being led by these Half Saints indicated the operation would be exceedingly perilous.

"I understand your fears. I won't force you. Return and consider for two days. If you find it too dangerous and choose not to go, I won't hold it against you. If decided, join me in two days."

Ling Chen continued calmly.

The graceful woman and Kong Xuan expressed their gratitude before departing.

"Ling Yu, have you truly decided to take this risk?"

After the graceful woman and the three left, Ling Xue came forward, her delicate face slightly tense as she looked at Ling Chen.

"Yes."

Ling Chen nodded without hesitation, then looked at Ling Xue. "However, this operation is dangerous. Sister Ling Xue, you should stay on Qinglong Island. If something were to happen to you following me, I couldn't explain it to the Third Elder."

"If you're not afraid, what's leaving me alone on Qinglong Island?"

Ling Xue shook her head. "I believe you're not the careless type. I'm going with you. The Third Elder instructed me to assist you fully, never leaving your side. How could I go against his wishes?"

"Fine. But remember, Sister Ling Xue, follow my orders and don't act rashly."

Ling Chen advised Ling Xue. He still held some affection for her; he wasn't the heartless type and naturally didn't wish for anything to happen to her.

"Ling Yu, the Fourth Elder summons you."

While the two were speaking, a voice came from outside the pavilion. Following the voice, Ling Chen saw it was a Steward of Ling's Family.

"The Fourth Elder's summons indicates progress on the plan."

A smile appeared on Ling Chen's face as he looked at Ling Xue. "What kind of person is the Fourth Elder Ling Xiong?"

"You'll know when you see him."

Ling Xue answered mysteriously.

Seeing this, Ling Chen didn't ask further and followed the Steward of Ling's Family.

On Qinglong Island, within the core great hall.

Upon entering the great hall, Ling Chen saw an elderly man in a black robe.

"Fourth Elder, Ling Yu is here."

With a respectful bow, the Steward of Ling's Family withdrew at the gesture of the black-robed elder.

"So you're Ling Yu?"

The black-robed elder turned, revealing a cold face despite its aged look, exuding a certain vigor, suggesting he had been quite handsome in his youth.

"You reckless brat, daring this foolish plan, unafraid of risking your life?"

The Fourth Elder Ling Xiong's voice was strong and resonant, echoing like thunder throughout the great hall.

"If one doesn't enter the tiger's den, how can one catch a tiger cub?" Ling Chen remained composed, saying, "For the family's sake, risking a bit is worth it."

"Do you truly think that way?" The Fourth Elder smiled slyly. "The Family Head informed me about you, claiming you're doing this for the family while it's clearly for yourself. How shameless."

Being exposed by the Fourth Elder, Ling Chen blushed, internally noting how the old fellow was rather blunt. Perhaps he supported the Elder Branch.

If so, his bait plan might be ruined.