Honkai Star Rail: I Can Hear Their Secrets

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Su Jinyan wasn't surprised by Sushang's expressed concern. Previously, when he had posted under Qingque's name to praise himself, Sushang had responded in the comments. At that time, it became clear to him that Sushang held admiration for powerful individuals.

The narrator had also mentioned that Sushang aspired to emulate the legends of the Cloud Knights' history and yearned to become a renowned figure herself.

But why did the narrator insist on Su Jinyan winning Sushang's affection within these few days? Perhaps after settling the Astral Express Crew's esteemed guests, he could consult with her friend Guinaifen about this matter?

March 7th looked around curiously, intrigued by everything. "Hey, where exactly are we?"

Su Jinyan replied, "This is the Ethereal Immortal Ferry, governed by the six divisions each overseeing their respective duties."

"All matters concerning airspace, navigation, and trade fall under the jurisdiction of the Sky-Faring Commission, one of the six divisions."

"We're at Starsea, Luofu's largest port, which also comes under the control of the Sky-Faring Commission."

"Look over there, at the tallest building in the city—that's the headquarters of the Sky-Faring Commission, the Palace of Astrum."

"Why don't you all accompany me now?" Su Jinyan suggested.

Welt gently shook his head. "Meeting with the six divisions requires some preparation."

"Rest assured, we won't go anywhere else," Welt replied. "Please inform them ahead of time; we'll wait for you outside the Palace of Astrum shortly."

Su Jinyan readily agreed. "No problem."

However, just before leaving, Su Jinyan pulled up Stelle's sleeve and gestured for her to follow him discreetly. Under the puzzled gazes of Welt and March 7th, they sneaked off to a corner.

"After I leave, could you keep an eye on Mr. Walter for me?" Su Jinyan asked quietly. "Make sure he doesn't secretly spread any rumors about me, alright?"

"Hmph, Uncle Yang treats me like family, almost like my own uncle. Do you think I'd betray him?" Stelle's eyes were resolute, firmly rejecting any unethical advice.

Welt felt unexpectedly touched by this display.

"You don't need to repay the two million Credits I transferred to your account; I'll take care of it!"

Stelle's expression slightly changed. "Excellent! With me here, Uncle Yang won't dare utter a single bad word about you!"

Su Jinyan looked visibly pleased. "Deal!"

Welt remained silent.

March 7th also stayed quiet.

Wait, can't you two whisper when conspiring? Don't make it so obvious for us to hear?

After Su Jinyan left, Welt pushed his glasses up and spoke gravely, "This Mr. Su Jinyan seems somewhat..."

Ever diligent, Stelle promptly reminded him, "Uncle Yang, you mustn't speak ill of him."

Welt nodded. "Alright, then let you both share your thoughts instead."

I'm not saying anything negative now, but just wait until after you've had your say.

Stelle's expression turned serious. "Sly, Su Jinyan is incredibly sly!"

"He effortlessly saw through my weaknesses!"

"How did he know that I like rummaging through trash bins and collecting treasure chests?"

March 7th chimed in indignantly, "He clearly has six wives!"

"And he still dares to call himself a Pure Love Warrior!"

Welt shook his head. "Neither of you is getting to the heart of the matter."

"Have either of you noticed how effortlessly enjoyable it is to converse with him?"

March 7th and Stelle furrowed their brows, realizing that indeed, it seemed true.

Stelle, puzzled, asked, "Uncle Yang, do you mean he's exceptionally skilled at socializing?"

Welt nodded gently. "Precisely. He adopts a humble demeanor, making others feel comfortable around him."

"It allows for smoother and more pleasant interactions," March 7th added.

"But given his status, there's really no need for him to do so," Welt continued.

March 7th's eyes sparkled. "Wow, I felt like his aura was similar to Sampo's all along."

"They both don't seem particularly straightforward or serious."

"Hmph, Detective March 7th's intuition strikes again."

Welt queried, "Do you think he might be concealing his true identity?"

With confidence, Stelle replied, "Based on my years of investigative experience, he must be Luofu's general!"

However, March 7th had a different perspective. "Nope, from what this young lady can tell..."

"He appears as Master Fu Xuan's disciple, but secretly, he could very well be some kind of weirdo."

Stelle pondered for a moment before suggesting, "March, want to make a bet on it?"

Without hesitation, March 7th responded, "Sure, what's the wager?"

"Let's up the ante," Stelle suggested. "Whoever loses has to confess their feelings to him!"

"You're definitely going down!" March 7th retorted.

Welt couldn't help but shake his head; these youngsters' bet was utterly pointless. "Instead, let's focus on how we'll handle Lady Yukong from the Sky-Faring Commission."

"With the impending Stellaron explosion, Xianzhou Luofu faces threats both within and without."

"Although our Astral Express arrived here to seal the Stellaron, mentioning that could raise suspicions among influential figures."

Swinging her bat with determination, Stelle declared, "I wonder if Yukong can take a swing from me."

Welt sternly cautioned, "Put it away... We're not here to confront her directly."

"Don't worry, we always act with integrity—there's nothing to fear."

"Just make sure you don't stir up any trouble while we're there."

Sigh, Uncle Yang is getting old; my heart can't endure this kind of stress.

March 7th muttered, "We were pretty straightforward in Belobog too..."

Welt warned them, "First, I want to prepare you both for what's ahead."

"For the upcoming meeting, stay alert and handle it carefully."

March 7th couldn't resist asking, "Uncle Yang, are you worried about facing Xianzhou's officials?"

"...Will we encounter similar issues like in Belobog?"

Welt shook his head. "No, the Xianzhou Alliance wouldn't be so discourteous.

"However, when Lady Yukong meets with us, she will undoubtedly ask a barrage of questions—

"Why did we choose this particular time to visit Xianzhou?

"How did we learn about the connection between the calamity and the Stellaron?

"Who revealed information about Xianzhou to us?

"If our responses are not carefully considered, it could easily invite suspicion and hostility, making our task significantly more challenging."

Recalling their earlier conversation with Su Jinyan, Stelle rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

"It seems like Su Jinyan didn't bring up any of these questions just now," he observed.

Welt nodded. "That's precisely why I said he is different.

"Throughout our interaction, Mr. Su Jinyan served as an exemplary guide,

"explaining Xianzhou's history and taboos to us.

"He couldn't have been unaware of these implications, could he? Of course not.

"I fear the real challenge lies ahead with Yukong herself."

March 7th felt overwhelmed by the complexity. "Ugh, adult matters are so intricate."

A sudden idea struck Stelle. "Let Uncle Yang handle all the talking during that meeting."

March 7th's eyes lit up. "Great idea!"

"We'll play supportive roles on the side, cheering Uncle Yang on."

Welt cleared his throat softly, "Ahem, let's stay focused."

"Every challenge has its solution. Don't worry; when the time comes, I'll handle the responses," Welt reassured them.

The Palace of Astrum truly lived up to its reputation as the most majestic building within the city.

Golden glazed tiles covered its eaves, shimmering brilliantly under the light. The interior boasted lavish decorations and ornate carvings, with every detail meticulously arranged.

Welt and his companions followed Su Jinyan, slowly entering the Palace of Astrum.

"Report the loss data to General Jing Yuan and summon the secretary from the Divination Commission."

"With such chaos, they cannot remain uninvolved—"

This mature beauty, with her long teal hair, exquisite features, and striking figure, was none other than the branch director of the Sky-Faring Commission - Lady Yukong.

Before her lay a pale blue holographic jade divination tablet, through which she communicated with the recipient on the other end.

"Yes, ma'am," responded the navigation officer.

Welt's expression turned somewhat grave. Had they inadvertently stumbled upon Yukong's moment of anger? Or perhaps, was this Branch Director Yukong's way of asserting dominance over newcomers?

Su Jinyan cheerfully greeted her, "Hey, hey, hey, Lady Yukong, I've brought you the prisoners, just like promised."

Welt and the others' faces shifted slightly, instinctively bracing themselves.

March 7th, both startled and indignant, exclaimed, "Wow, were you waiting to trap us like this?"

Yukong sighed. "A-Yan, stop playing around."

The corners of Su Jinyan's mouth curved upward as he spread his arms wide. "Surprise!" He continued jovially, "My apologies, everyone—it was just a little joke. Please don't take it seriously."

Welt adjusted his glasses, his expression somewhat grave.

March 7th let out a relieved sigh. "Honestly, you gave me quite a scare!"

Yukong spoke calmly, "A-Yan has already informed me of your purpose for coming here. Normally, my duties do not include receiving visitors. However, since you are aware of the Stellaron and have expressed intent to assist Luofu, propriety demands that I grant you an audience...to personally decline your offer."

Stelle paled with shock. "We've been rejected?"

With solemnity, Yukong replied, "The Stellaron is but a minor concern; the Alliance has long known about it and possesses means to address the issue. Xianzhou has navigated eight millennia, enduring countless crises amidst its journey. Although the current calamity appears formidable, Xianzhou remains capable of handling it without external assistance."

"You are esteemed guests from afar; there is no reason for you to be involved in this matter—do you understand my stance?"

Welt disagreed, "From what we've observed so far, the Stellaron's influence has not yet fully permeated."

"If its location can be determined promptly and it is contained, both the corrupted spaces and infected individuals may have a chance at recovery."

"We once halted the Stellaron disaster, and our presence here today is solely to lend assistance," Welt explained firmly.

Yukong raised her voice, asserting, "I've been very clear: this is an internal affair of the Xianzhou Alliance, requiring no intervention from the Astral Express."

"As a gesture of respect, I specifically arranged this meeting to convey our final decision, which will not be altered."

Just as Welt was about to speak, Su Jinyan interjected ahead of him, "Lady Yukong, I object!"

Yukong's expression remained cold. "State your reasons."

Su Jinyan argued resolutely, "Currently, Xianzhou Luofu faces both internal strife and external threats."

"The negative impacts of the Stellaron explosion are far more complex than they appear."

"I instantly connected with my friends from the Astral Express; I wholeheartedly believe they can bring change to Luofu!" Su Jinyan declared.

Upon hearing this, March 7th's gaze towards Su Jinyan softened, filled with newfound appreciation.

Look at that, he sure knows how to speak well—much better than this Yukong, she thought. Accusing us right off the bat? Who does she think she is? Humph!

Yukong spoke coldly, "Enough! Did you not understand what I said? The Stellaron was discovered on Luofu just yesterday, and Starcross Sea has been completely sealed since then; no one could have left."

"How did the Astral Express members possess such foresight, and why do you believe all these events are linked to the Stellaron?"

"Lady Yukong," Su Jinyan hastily interjected, "I can vouch for them."

Yukong sneered, "As merely a novice diviner, what authority do you have to guarantee their trustworthiness?"

March 7th chimed in, "Alright, don't bother defending us anymore."

"If Lady Yukong doesn't believe us and thinks the Alliance can handle it themselves, there's no point wasting our time here. Let's just leave."

Yukong's voice slowly hardened. "No, you won't be leaving."

Stelle looked astonished. "This familiar sensation..."

March 7th's expression turned displeased. "Hey, now that's going too far."

Yukong frowned deeply. "I've accessed the entry and exit records of Starcross Sea."

"Recently, someone hacked into the system and opened the Jade World Gate," she continued. "They guided a ship to port—that was your Astral Express... And this hacker, with remarkable skill, deliberately left a mark as if taunting us—it bore the signature 'Silver Wolf, member of the Stellaron Hunters.'"

"What do you have to say about this?"

Welt spoke gravely, "But Mr. Su Jinyan stated it was you who opened the Jade World Gate for us."

Yukong's demeanor remained composed. "It was merely a delaying tactic; I instructed him to say so."

"Would you have willingly come here without that explanation?"

Su Jinyan furrowed his brow intensely. "Lady Yukong, the truth is glaringly obvious."

"This is clearly a frame-up orchestrated by my mother!" he exclaimed. "As the branch director of the Sky-Faring Commission, how could you lack such discernment?"

Initially displaying mild anger, Yukong then appeared stunned. "Your mother? Your mother—wait, a frame-up orchestrated by your mother?" She repeated emphatically, "A frame-up orchestrated by your mother?"

Yukong frowned, carefully pondering the deeper meaning behind these words.

Isn't this deviating from the script? Why aren't you sticking to your lines, kid?

And by the way, who exactly is your mother?

March 7th whispered, "Uncle Yang, why did their conversation suddenly turn into insults?"

"And cursing someone's mother—it sounds truly vile."

Confused, Welt replied, "No, his intention seemed to be—"

"Is he implying that Silver Wolf framed them and then calling her 'mom'?" March 7th asked incredulously.

Shocked beyond measure, Stelle exclaimed, "Does it mean Silver Wolf is actually his mother?"

"How was I not aware of this? Does Silver Wolf have a son now?"

Puzzled, March 7th said, "Hey, even you didn't know?"

Stelle retorted sarcastically, "How would I know? I'm still figuring out my own identity; why should I care if Silver Wolf has become a mom or not?"

"No, I can't stand the curiosity anymore. I must ask Silver Wolf about this."

Welt cautioned softly, "Shh, keep your voices down."

"We don't want others hearing us and thinking we're genuinely involved with the Stellaron Hunters."

Right in front of March 7th and Welt, Stelle sent a text message to Silver Wolf:

[Today's Dumpster Diving?: Silver Wolf, were you the one who opened the Jade World Gate for us?]

After sending the text, Silver Wolf's status showed as read but no reply yet.

Stelle thought for a moment and continued texting:

[Today's Dumpster Diving: Do you have a son named Su Jinyan?]

[Punklorde's Silver Wolf: ???]

[Today's Dumpster Diving: Did I misunderstand something? Sorry, just forget I asked.]

[Punklorde's Silver Wolf: This secret I haven't shared with anyone; only he and I know about it. How did you find out?]

Upon reading the messages, March 7th, Stelle, and Welt fell into a prolonged silence.

The brief exchange contained such a wealth of information that they were almost overwhelmed.

Even Welt was taken aback, never expecting Silver Wolf to indeed have a son.

Why would her son, Su Jinyan, be serving as a diviner on Xianzhou Luofu?

What caused the rift between mother and son?

March 7th couldn't hide her shock. "Su Jinyan is truly Silver Wolf's son!"

Stelle, feeling bewildered, replied, "I had no idea..."

Suddenly, March 7th became uncharacteristically excited. "I think I understand why he wanted to help us now! It must be because their relationship is strained, so he felt compelled to defy his mother."

"Silver Wolf tried to frame us, but he insisted on helping clear our names!"

Welt pushed up his glasses, his expression grave. He had never heard before that any member of the Stellaron Hunters had offspring. Nor had there ever been rumors of them having partners throughout the universe.

Judging by appearance, Su Jinyan seemed to have inherited little from Silver Wolf's genes.

Could he be an artificially created life form, produced by Silver Wolf using a cultivation chamber?

Considering that Silver Wolf was part of the Stellaron Hunters, it wouldn't be surprising for her to undertake such actions.

March 7th sought Welt's opinion, "Uncle Yang, should we keep this secret about Su Jinyan?"

"He seems like a good person; spreading this might cause him trouble, right?"

Stelle stroked his chin thoughtfully. "If word gets out, it would undoubtedly create a sensation across the Galaxy."

"And they might even score an exclusive interview with Ji Mi."

"But enemies of the Stellaron Hunters could target him, using Su Jinyan to threaten Silver Wolf."

Welt didn't hesitate. "Of course, we must guard this secret diligently."

"Remember, causing unnecessary trouble for others is immoral."

Despite March 7th and her friends whispering very softly, Yukong overheard every word.

Yukong remained silent, internally exasperated—did they not realize foxfolk have exceptionally keen hearing?

A-Yan had kindly defended them, yet they turned around and slandered him as Silver Wolf's son? Even suggesting a mother-son relationship breakdown... It sounded utterly absurd...

Yukong glanced at Su Jinyan, silently seeking permission on whether to apprehend them.

Su Jinyan subtly shook his head, signaling Yukong to continue with the act.

"Hmph, regardless of what you say, you must understand your position," Yukong declared. "Firstly, you are a member of Luofu, and secondly, you are a diviner of the Divination Commission. Even your direct superior, Fu Xuan, believes the Astral Express is allied with the Stellaron Hunters. And yet, you still vouch for them? Aren't you afraid that word might reach Master Fu Xuan, causing her displeasure?"

Su Jinyan's expression remained resolute. "I am not afraid!"

"The Astral Express operates with integrity; why would they align themselves with the disgraceful Stellaron Hunters?" March 7th, now fully convinced, chimed in with growing confidence. "See, see? We said it—no one just helps others without ulterior motives."

"His unwavering defense of you all clearly indicates he intends to disrupt the Silver Wolf," she added.

Welt appeared perplexed. "Hiss, is it really like that...?"

March 7th gently nudged Welt. "Oh come on, Uncle Yang!" she exclaimed. "If you can't trust anyone else, at least believe in me, the renowned Detective March 7th, right?"

Welt quietly responded, "Little March, it's precisely because you said this that I don't trust it."

Xing nodded in agreement.

March 7th fell silent—Uncle Yang, that stings!

As Su Jinyan and Yukong continued their dramatic performance, General Jing Yuan's hologram entered at just the right moment.

"Yukong, no need to be so hostile," he said with a mild smile. "If word gets out, won't the Galaxy mock the Xianzhou Alliance for its poor hospitality?"

Yukong frowned discontentedly, deliberately emphasizing Jing Yuan's rank. "General Jing Yuan!"

Jing Yuan laughed heartily. "Yukong, how could the Astral Express possibly ally with the Stellaron Hunters? They're sworn enemies, after all. Apologies for interrupting your meeting; I am the Luofu Skyride General, Jing Yuan."

Yukong furrowed his brow. "General, this is an internal matter of Luofu..."

Jing Yuan gently nodded. "Yes, indeed, an internal matter—I fully agree with Branch Director Yukong's stance."

"My apologies, members of the train group.

"There is indeed a Stellaron on Luofu, but I must decline your kind offer.

"This issue concerns our Xianzhou alone, and we must resolve it ourselves."

"But since you've come all this way, how could I let you return empty-handed? Although we cannot accept the train group's assistance with the Stellaron, there is indeed another matter on which I must seek your help! Please follow me."

Welt and his companions silently trailed after Jing Yuan's projection to a corner.

"General," Su Jinyan asked, "regarding last night's incident, what stance has the Xianzhou Alliance taken?"

Jing Yuan chuckled despite himself. "Minister Su, do you truly believe those old fogies in the Xianzhou Alliance operate as efficiently as you?"

"The immortal beings have exceptionally long lifespans; for them, several years pass like the blink of an eye."

"As a result, their efficiency is remarkably low, especially among the Alliance's higher echelons. Every matter requires lengthy meetings and discussions."

Recalling the past, the Imbibitor Lunae Rebellion had severely impacted Luofu.

The King of Ten sought its destruction as a warning to others, while the Holding Bright Clan's dragon masters held differing opinions.

Both sides fiercely argued their positions for centuries before ultimately making concessions, leading to the forced removal of Imbibitor Lunae's scales.

As for Su Jinyan's audience with Yaoshi last night and receiving a reward, it might seem innocuous at first glance. However, its implications far surpassed those of the Imbibitor Lunae Rebellion.

Currently, under Emperor's Bow of Fate's decree, the Xianzhou Alliance prioritized eliminating the Plagues Author and its spawned evils.

Within Xianzhou, regardless of one's identity, any attempt to divine or manipulate the Plagues Author—whether foreseeing its future actions or seeking its rewards—was deemed an unpardonable offense, subject to severe punishment.

However, considering Su Jinyan's grand aspiration, this posed a dilemma for the Xianzhou Alliance.

If they arrested and punished him, it could easily provide ammunition for criticism, as he claimed his intent was also to eradicate Abundant Evil Creatures. Not only would harsh punishment be inappropriate, but he might even deserve commendation.

On the other hand, ignoring the situation entirely risked allowing malicious abundant individuals to exploit this stance, potentially inciting unrest within Xianzhou—an equally undesirable outcome.

"In the past, such deliberations would have taken centuries without reaching a conclusion."

"Given the significant impact of your actions, however..."

"The Xianzhou Alliance's verdict should arrive soon, I presume?"

"You won't face direct reprimand, that's certain. But don't expect any rewards either."

Su Jinyan joked, "I was hoping for a promotion to general at least."

Jing Yuan laughed along, "Why don't I just hand over my position as general to you then?"

"I've long lost interest in being a general," Su Jinyan continued seriously. "How about this—You be the general, Fu Xuan serve as the strategist, and I'll become the Grand Diviner at the Divination Commission. What do you think?"

"A gentleman does not deprive others of their aspirations," Su Jinyan stated firmly.

Welt couldn't help but mutter inwardly:

Wow, what incredible feat did Su Jinyan accomplish last night?

Even the Xianzhou Alliance seems hesitant now; that's uncharacteristic of them.

However, observing the tone of conversation between Su Jinyan and the general made it clear that their relationship was far from ordinary.

After exchanging pleasantries, Jing Yuan turned back to Welt, "The Astral Express—I have heard much about it."

"Enchanted by its fame, today's encounter is truly fortunate!"

Stelle chimed in, "A song to express our aspirations!"

"Sharing common goals!" agreed Su Jinyan.

March 7th eagerly joined, "Can hardly contain...my excitement!"

Stelle quipped, "Are you two playing a game of word association here?"

Jing Yuan remained momentarily speechless.

Looking apologetic, Welt addressed Jing Yuan, "General, your esteemed reputation precedes you. Please excuse the antics of these two beside me."

"May I inquire if there's any matter you wish to entrust us with?"

Jing Yuan smiled, "Oh indeed, one that only you can handle."

"Yesterday, we captured a Stellaron Hunter trespassing on Xianzhou's restricted areas—a man named 'Blade'."

"During Blade's interrogation, the Divination Commission—the department responsible for intelligence gathering and analysis within Xianzhou—"

"We intercepted a communication sent by his accomplice Kafka, hidden aboard the Xianzhou. As for the recipient—" Jing Yuan didn't explicitly state it, but March 7th and Stelle guiltily averted their gazes.

Wait, we haven't done anything wrong. Why should we feel guilty?

Jing Yuan continued, "I also have some knowledge of your connections with the Stellaron Hunters."

"The Divination Commission insists you must be their accomplices! I say that's impossible," he declared. "The Astral Express is renowned for its integrity and valor across realms; how could such esteemed individuals possibly align themselves with scoundrels?"

"Thus, this communication must be part of the Stellaron Hunters' nefarious scheme to deflect blame."

Stelle wholeheartedly agreed, "General, you're absolutely right. We've truly been screwed over by these damn circumstances."

Jing Yuan appeared slightly taken aback. "Uh, well, I hadn't realized you were so expressive?"

Stelle shook his head slightly, pointing at Su Jinyan, "No, what I mean is... All of us have indeed suffered greatly due to Su Jinyan's mother."

Even more perplexed, Jing Yuan asked, "What does Minister Su have to do with this?"

March 7th hastily explained, "No, General, there's a misunderstanding. It's not about him—he's actually a very nice person."

"We're referring to 'his mother,' not him specifically."

Welt silently covered his face, exasperated.

Confused, Jing Yuan raised an eyebrow.

Su Jinyan's expression turned serious. "It seems you already know."

"I deeply apologize for my mother's actions that led to your entrapment."

"However, now my mother is hiding aboard this Xianzhou. If you capture her, I believe all problems would be swiftly resolved," Su Jinyan explained calmly.

Welt asked, "Sir, are you suggesting that Silver Wolf, your mother, has infiltrated the Xianzhou?"

Su Jinyan responded unhappily, "Mr. Welt, who told you that Silver Wolf is my mother? It's highly impolite to arbitrarily assign parents like that!"

March 7th was taken aback, "Huh? Is she not?"

Welt looked apologetic, "Sorry, sorry, we just assumed..."

Confused, Stelle interjected, "But didn't you say earlier—"

With seriousness, Su Jinyan declared, "She is my father."

An involuntary silence fell over everyone present.

They began doubting their own comprehension abilities.

Yet it became evident that if there were any issues with understanding, they surely afflicted everyone equally.

Before Welt and the others could recover, Su Jinyan dropped another bombshell: "Kafka is actually my mother."

Once again, a profound silence enveloped the group.

Now, they were certain: there was nothing wrong with their comprehension; the issue lay solely with Su Jinyan.

Looking utterly bewildered, Stelle said, "No, even if you claimed Silver Wolf as your father, I might have understood."

"But how can Kafka possibly be your mother?"

March 7th was stunned. "Wait, what's going on here?"

"You think Silver Wolf being my father made sense? I find this utterly incomprehensible!"

Jing Yuan and the others nodded in agreement; they couldn't understand it either.

Su Jinyan decided to take out her phone and played a video of Kafka's high-stakes plea for a child.

"Now, when I say Kafka is my mother, does it make more sense?" she asked.

"The person I sought your help to find, and the one the general requested you to apprehend, both refer to Kafka—my mother."

March 7th's jaw dropped in shock. "Well, well, well."

"So all that elaborate charade was just for these Credits!" exclaimed March 7th.

"We finally grasp why you're so wealthy now," Jing Yuan chimed in. "To earn money, you truly don't mind any embarrassment, do you?"

Su Jinyan smiled slightly, but before she could respond, Stelle let out a cold laugh.

"Kafka is your mother? No way, she's clearly mine!" Stelle declared bluntly.

"Daring enough to contest me for a mother! Just who do you think controls Luofu?" Su Jinyan retorted angrily.

"Hey, can you two stop fighting over a mom already?" March 7th gently reminded them, "Arguing publicly like this, aren't you ashamed?"

"People posting Kafka's high-stakes plea were primarily seeking a companion, with having an heir as a secondary goal."

"Do you really think Kafka would be willing if you simply claim her as your mother without consideration?"

March 7th's words were like a wake-up call.

Su Jinyan and Stelle exchanged glances, both feeling somewhat somber.

A sudden idea struck Stelle. "Su Jinyan, how about this? I can acknowledge you as my 'dad.'"

"Then, when you propose to Kafka, she'll have both a partner and a child."

Excitedly, Su Jinyan grasped Stelle's hands and shook them up and down. "Thank you! You're truly clever!"

"I hereby bestow upon you the title 'Luofu's Greatest Genius,'" Stelle proudly puffed out her chest. "No problem, let's split the credits equally!"

March 7th angrily waved her clenched fists. "Hey, can't you two show some backbone?!"

At the right moment, Stelle gently placed her hand on March 7th's shoulder. "Little March, you're my very best friend."

"As soon as those fifty million credits come in, I'll buy you a whole carriage full of dolls," Stelle promised. "I'll also get you the best camera and the most beautiful clothes and dresses."

Envisioning these delightful scenes, March 7th couldn't help but blush slightly, becoming bashful.

"Um, Stelle..."

"Why don't you ask if our mom needs another daughter?" Su Jinyan mimicked March 7th's voice with uncanny accuracy.

Welt remained speechless once again, as everyone fell into yet another profound silence.

March 7th's cheeks flushed crimson as she hastily defended herself, "No, I didn't say that! Uncle Yang, you have to believe me; this maiden would never compromise her integrity for Credits!"

She genuinely felt touched by Stelle and simply wanted to express her gratitude, nothing more!

Naturally, Welt was willing to trust March 7th. Given her flustered state, it was important to preserve some dignity for her.

"Little March, I believe you." Welt's expression conveyed his empathy; in the adult world, nothing comes easy.

Sighing, he thought, Ah, even little March has it tough.

March 7th fell silent, unsure how to respond.

Jing Yuan couldn't help but doubt whether entrusting such a crucial matter to the Astral Express was truly wise. Was this decision reliable?

Welt let out a weary sigh. "Very well, since all of you have made your decision."

"Let capturing Kafka be our primary task, while assisting Xianzhou in apprehending the Stellaron Hunters."

"But allow me to clarify beforehand, please don't lump me together with little March and others like them."

Jing Yuan chuckled lightly, "Of course not, Mr. Walter, nor should you equate me with Minister Su."

"If you treat Luofu with utmost sincerity, we shall reciprocate likewise."

"I will immediately issue orders for Yukong to share all relevant intelligence and allocate elite personnel to assist you in the pursuit," Jing Yuan continued.

"While you're aboard the Xianzhou, if there's any assistance needed from the Sky-Faring Commission or Cloud Knights, please don't hesitate to ask."

Walter nodded gently. "General, we are still unfamiliar with Luofu. It might be helpful for Mr. Su Jinyan to guide us around. What do you think?"

Jing Yuan smiled. "I certainly have no objections, but... Minister Su is affiliated with the Divination Commission. If you wish to enlist his aid, you'll need to obtain the Grand Diviner's consent."

Just as he finished speaking, Fu Xuan's projection materialized beside Jing Yuan.

"You insolent disciple!"

Su Jinyan paled, taken aback—being called an "insolent disciple" upon their first meeting today?

Fu Xuan's face was grim, clearly displeased with him associating with such disreputable company.

"Quite energetic, aren't you? You returned to your quarters at 3 A.M., only to rise again at 6 A.M."

"If you have energy to wander about, why not use it to attend work at the Divination Commission instead?"

Feeling awkward, Su Jinyan replied, "Shizun, am I not here to welcome the esteemed guests of the Astral Express?"

Fu Xuan sneered, "Esteemed guests? Are they more important than this venerable one?"

"Huh?" Su Jinyan uttered, bewildered.

March 7th had been about to turn and leave but paused upon hearing this exchange, immediately whispering to Stelle.

"Hey, listen to that tone."

"Could it be that this Grand Diviner from the Divination Commission is actually his secret lover? Quite the forbidden romance between master and disciple, huh?"

Fu Xuan's small face darkened. This guest of the Astral Express was truly impudent—who did they think was someone's concubine? Clearly, this venerable one is A-Yan's Shizun!

Jing Yuan remained silent.

Stelle, more serious now, chided March 7th, "I never expected you to speak so recklessly about your friends, March."

"As a great Trailblazer, I am ashamed to be associated with such behavior!"

March 7th blinked, puzzled.

"Where did this insolent person come from?" Fu Xuan asked coldly. "This venerable one clearly meant: Are these esteemed guests' tasks as important as what I entrusted them with?"

March 7th turned around defiantly. "Hmph, who'd believe that?" she scoffed.

Fu Xuan shifted his gaze to Su Jinyan. "Three diviners of the Divination Commission were demoted due to you. Even Qingque, capable of handling all three diviners' duties, was reduced to overseeing the storehouse because of your actions."

"Now, the Divination Commission faces a severe shortage of skilled personnel. The only newly appointed diviner is Ruoyue, leaving everyone there overwhelmed with work!" He paused before continuing, "Tell me, how do you plan to resolve this predicament for this venerable one?"

Su Jinyan seemed perplexed. "Is it really that serious?"

Fu Xuan responded unhappily, "Why else do you think this venerable one kept those three around?"

"Since you've taken upon yourself the task of purging incompetence, it falls on you to clean up this mess too."

"How about appointing A-Yan as the new diviner? What does the general think?"

Jing Yuan chuckled lightly. "The Divination Commission is under Minister Fu's jurisdiction; everything rests on Minister Fu's discretion."

"Eh, wait, the Xianzhou Alliance's announcement has been released."

"I didn't expect those old fellows to be surprisingly efficient this time."

Jing Yuan glanced at the content of the message from the Xianzhou Alliance, and a subtle change flickered across his face.

Fu Xuan suppressed her curiosity with great effort, refraining from tiptoeing to sneak a peek at Jing Yuan's jade divination tablet. With so many unrelated individuals present, she couldn't afford to let go of her Grand Diviner responsibilities.

Assuming a solemn expression, Fu Xuan spoke in an authoritative tone that brooked no dissent, "Renegade disciple, you have been promoted."

"From this day forth, you shall be a diviner within the Divination Commission."