Spirit Realm Walker

Part 8 contact

Taking a deep breath, Zhang Yuanqing tried to keep his tone calm:

"Officer Li, it's Zhang Yuanqing."

"Ah, it's you." A laugh came from the other end. "What brings you to me in the middle of the night?"

Zhang Yuanqing spoke in a low voice, "I have some clues to report. In fact, before Lei Yibing disappeared, he sent me a card."

"Why didn't you mention this earlier?"

Li Dongze's voice held not the slightest trace of surprise.

Zhang Yuanqing hesitated for a moment, then relayed his suspicions about Brother Bing's disappearance in full detail.

After a brief silence, a chuckle followed from the other end:

"You really know how to make yourself part of the story, don't you?"

Guan Ya was right. Zhang Yuanqing had an inherently solitary personality. A normal, cheerful university student wouldn't have such a guarded heart.

"Sorry," Zhang Yuanqing awkwardly apologized, swiftly changing the topic—or rather, cutting straight to the point:

"I encountered some strange, inexplicable things tonight. Hmm, do you understand what I mean?"

"So, it seems you've successfully made it out of the Spirit Realm." Li Dongze's voice held a touch of relief.

Yes, just barely made it out—almost died in there. Hearing this, Zhang Yuanqing felt his heart settle.

The other party was clearly aware of the Spirit Realm.

Li Dongze said, "University student, congratulations on becoming a Spirit Realm Walker. That's what people like us are called. I'm one too, though I'm an official one, while you are a rogue."

Spirit Realm Walker. Zhang Yuanqing savored the phrase and asked,

"What exactly is the Spirit Realm?"

He had too many questions, and could only start with the basics.

"I can't tell you that now. If you want to learn more, you'll have to make a choice," Li Dongze replied gravely.

"The authorities have two approaches to the Spirit Realm. One is to recruit and nurture people like us, while the other is to monitor and control. The former means joining us, becoming part of the official Spirit Realm Walkers.

"The latter means remaining a lone wolf. You'll just need to register with us, promising not to use your abilities to break any laws, and we won't interfere with you. Of course, you also won't receive any support from us."

Without hesitation, Zhang Yuanqing said, "I'm willing to join the organization, to serve the country and the people, even at the cost of my life."

Li Dongze laughed. "As expected from someone raised in a family of public servants, you've got a real sense of duty."

Zhang Yuanqing couldn't tell if the remark was mocking or sincere.

"Well, get some rest. I'll pick you up at 8 a.m. tomorrow," Li Dongze said.

"Huh? Not now?" Zhang Yuanqing hesitated. "Tomorrow?"

"What else? What time do you think it is? Even if you're eager to serve, the organization doesn't start work until morning."

He doesn't want to say anything over the phone—worried I might back out and get free intel? Zhang Yuanqing thought to himself, but could only sigh in resignation. "Alright."