The General Command of Winterend Island was stationed in the most mysterious region of the island, surrounded by numerous restrictive formations and wards. No unfamiliar person could approach within fifty li of the place.
Once someone drew near, they would inevitably trigger the web of formations. Even if they managed to slip past one, chances were they wouldn't survive the second or third.
To make matters worse, the perimeter of the formations was patrolled by numerous guards of the General Command. These guards were all death warriors personally trained by the General himself—specialists in stealth, ambush, and coordinated assault.
Unless one possessed an absolutely overwhelming advantage in strength, charging in here was practically a death sentence.
At this moment, inside the General Command, the General himself and all of his staff officers had gathered in the main hall, awaiting his orders.
The General was not an imposingly built man, but his eyes were exceptionally sharp—so piercing that a single glance felt as though it could dissect a person's soul, leaving them no place to hide their thoughts.
Behind the General stood four death warriors. These four were clearly his personal bodyguards.
In broad daylight, standing there perfectly still, they gave off the feeling of phantoms.
The other staff officers were seated on either side.
"Xin Zhi, you're the one coordinating with the royal family. Have they given us anything concrete? When exactly will the honored guests arrive at the Rejuvenation Island Domain? And when will they reach our Winterend Island?"
The General's gaze fell upon a staff officer seated at the left—this was one of his most important aides, named Xin Zhi.
The man wore a thin goatee, his features refined and scholarly, carrying the air of a seasoned strategist.
"Reporting to the General: the latest word from the royal family is that the guests have been arriving at the Rejuvenation Island Domain in succession. The royal family there will be hosting banquets for them. As for when they will come to Winterend Island, there is no confirmed date yet. The movements of the guests are not something even the royal family can decide—it depends entirely on the guests themselves."
Xin Zhi delivered the latest intelligence, then added, "However, the royal family has given a firm assurance: the guests will definitely come to Winterend Island. It seems they are quite interested in this place. The royal family is also treating this visit with great importance. They're hoping that Winterend Island can make these guests depart satisfied."
The General spoke in a grave tone: "Everyone has heard that. This reception is of enormous significance to the entire Rejuvenation Island Domain. The Rejuvenation Island Domain has never been considered a mainstream power in the Myriad Abyss Island—somewhere between second-rate and third-rate. The royal family spent enormous effort and expended a great deal of face to persuade the young lords and ladies of these great powers to come visit. If we can satisfy them, they'll speak on behalf of the Rejuvenation Island Domain in the future, and we'll have a chance to slowly work our way into the mainstream powers of the Myriad Abyss Island—to be accepted among them!"
Every staff officer nodded in agreement.
Clearly, everyone understood that securing these guests had not come easily. For Winterend Island, this was an opportunity as well. If they could execute this reception properly, the royal family would reward them generously, and everyone present would benefit.
"All right, there's no need to be on edge. Everything is under our control. As long as everyone follows the plan, nothing will go wrong."
The General then turned his gaze to a man on the right side: "Zong Han, how is the progress with the various factions?"
Zong Han was a middle-aged martial artist with deep, penetrating eyes and a keen, sharp bearing.
Hearing the General's question, he cupped his fists and replied: "Sir, all factions are following your orders and putting their full effort into talent selection. I've sent people to oversee them multiple times, and none of them dare slack off. According to the reports from all sides, they have truly made their utmost effort this time."
The General nodded with satisfaction upon hearing this. "These fellows—you have to push them, or they won't work half as hard."
Just as they were speaking, a report was suddenly delivered from outside.
Zong Han took the report, read it, and broke into a smile: "General, good news. The City of Sin has completed its selection. The harvest is remarkable. Among the chosen are several outstanding prospects—though only at the Emperor realm, they show faint signs of HeavenlySeat aura and strength. Truly exceptional! Here are the details."
Zong Han respectfully presented the report.
The General took it and studied it for a moment, a pleased expression crossing his face. "Very good, very good. Xie Wushang is a capable man. When he puts his mind to something, he can get it done."
It was clear that the General was extremely satisfied with this intelligence.
"Send word to Xie Wushang immediately. Have him keep these geniuses restrained within the City of Sin for the time being. They are not to leave. They should stand ready to be summoned at any moment."
Zong Han chuckled. "I already pressed him on this matter earlier. Xie Wushang would be a fool not to understand."
"Mm. Well handled. What about the Valley of Extreme Evil and the Six Extremes Workshop—they should be finishing their selections around now as well?" the General said evenly.
"I sent people to push them along as well. It should be completed within the next few days."
……