Chapter Sixty-Four: The Three Billion X Launch Event

The night was deep and silent. In the central Spirit Library, a massive crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting gentle light that draped the hall like a veil. Occasionally, a spiritual master would pass through one of the nine grand doors, their footsteps unusually clear in the tranquil atmosphere.

Bai Yujing sat in the third row of the corner lounge, cradling a travel journal. The pages turned softly beneath his fingers, making a faint rustle. Suddenly, the main door of the library creaked open, and heavy footsteps approached him.

He looked up.

The newcomer had a square face, thick brows and large eyes, his Six Gates uniform lending him an imposing air.

“Master Bai, sorry to keep you waiting. There was a lot of aftermath to handle, and it’s only now that we’ve confirmed those monsters have abandoned their plan to attack Shanghai.”

Bao Long sat across from Bai Yujing, his tone brisk and decisive. “I have truthfully reported your slaying of the Yamata-no-Orochi to the higher-ups. As long as the follow-up investigation team checks my memory, they’ll know I’m not lying.”

Bai Yujing frowned slightly. “Killing the Yamata-no-Orochi was a personal vendetta. I never intended for it to be more, and there’s no need for them to search your memories. That kind of scripture—if the user makes even a slight error, it could leave hidden scars.”

“No worries. You earned merit, and you should receive your reward.” Bao Long answered with utmost seriousness. He believed that merit should be rewarded and faults punished—this was the foundation of a healthy nation. To only give heroes verbal praise would be nonsense.

“I’ve requested a bonus of three hundred million for you. Barring any surprises, it should arrive within two or three days.”

“Alright.” Bai Yujing nodded, finding Bao Long nothing like the rumors. He was, in fact, quite easy to get along with.

After discussing the reward, Bao Long asked, “There’s been some online buzz about the earlier upper-level lockdown. We’ve decided to hold a press conference to briefly explain the situation. If you prefer not to appear, we can keep your identity secret. If you want to show up, you can attend and recount how you slew the Yamata-no-Orochi and foiled the monster’s terror attack on Shanghai.”

Bai Yujing’s heart stirred. He knew he would eventually appear on television, though he didn’t expect the opportunity to come so soon.

“I don’t care much about being on TV or not,” Bai Yujing closed his book, his expression calm, his tone indifferent. “Going once doesn’t matter.”

“Where will the press conference be held, and when?”

“At Shanghai Television, starting at seven in the evening. You need to arrive by six thirty.”

“Alright.” Bai Yujing nodded.

Seeing this, Bao Long got up and left the Spirit Library. He was a workaholic, rarely socializing. He’d never taken a single day off since he started. Some friends joked, “Crime never ends; Iron Hands never rest.” Bao Long mused that if he truly lived up to those words, he’d never find rest—for corruption and criminals would never be fully eradicated. If he relaxed in his efforts, wouldn’t that make the land a breeding ground for crime and corruption?

Bao Long hurried away.

Bai Yujing was left pondering: what should he say at the press conference?

…

October 28th, dawn.

The doors of the Spirit Library were gently pushed open, and Liu Shuangling, Zhu Ying, and Tiya entered in single file. The hall was empty and chilly. Carrying food boxes, they walked to the third row’s long table, set out the boxes, and brought out breakfast.

The aroma of seafood porridge quietly filled the air, mingling with the freshness of shrimp and crab, steaming hot.

Bai Yujing didn’t rush to eat. He glanced at the three opposite him. “Six Gates says there’ll be a press conference tonight at seven about my slaying of the Yamata-no-Orochi. Should I change into something different for the occasion?”

As the leader of the Azure Cloud Sect, his appearance on television naturally couldn’t be lacking. He always wore a sky-blue crane robe—not because it was particularly attractive, but simply because he couldn’t be bothered to choose different clothes each day. Now, facing the camera, he wondered whether this outfit was suitable.

Zhu Ying remained silent. Of the three women, she was the one most fond of makeup, but advising Bai Yujing on attire was a challenge.

Liu Shuangling wasn’t versed in fashion either.

Tiya set down her chopsticks and gave Bai Yujing a professional once-over. “What you wear depends on what image you want to present to the audience.”

As a young lady of status, she’d been raised to know exactly what to wear for any occasion, and what impression each outfit would give.

Bai Yujing was caught off guard by the question. He thought for a moment. “Just express my true self.”

“Then keep wearing the crane robe. No need to change.” Tiya shrugged, leaned forward, and the table instantly transformed into a silvery fruit platter for her abundant and ripe fruit. She picked up a distant oyster and ate it, savoring it slowly. She had to admit, the senior sister’s cooking surpassed her own chef’s.

Bai Yujing was curious. “If I wanted to appear more imposing?”

“Then wear a black suit, cut your hair short, and slick it back.”

“Cut my hair?” Bai Yujing touched his hair, hesitation flickering across his face. It had taken him a long time to grow it this length. He decided against it.

“A false image is useless. I’ll respond in the most genuine manner.”

“Master, do you want me to play the reporter and rehearse questions with you?”

Tiya eagerly volunteered—not because she cared that much about Bai Yujing’s press conference, but simply wanting the chance to give him a hard time by posing as a reporter. While it would take her a long time to match him in skill, she was confident she could be his teacher when it came to press conferences.

Bai Yujing saw through her intent and, not wishing to give her the opportunity, said sternly, “No need. I can handle it.”

“Master, don’t say I didn’t warn you—reporters’ questions are tricky. Be careful not to trip up.”

“I know what I’m doing.” Bai Yujing refused again.

Unlike challenges of skill, in this arena, he wouldn’t give Tiya a chance when she clearly meant mischief. He could easily fall into her verbal traps.

Tiya was somewhat disappointed, but still earnestly imparted her experience. She didn’t want her sworn rival to be stumped by a bunch of unscrupulous media.

“Master, when facing reporters, no matter how they bombard you with questions, just state your own opinions. If they ask something you don’t want to answer, simply say the question isn’t relevant, or explain what you believe the real issue is. Never try to seriously answer their questions!”