Concerned about potential deceit, Zhou You quietly asked Shao Qi, "Are the soldiers here really treated this well?"

Thinking Zhou You might be swayed, Shao Qi quickly retorted, "Could their benefits ever compare to the Central Corps? Dawn City is the nation's safest base. If you get married and have children here, the benefits for military families are unparalleled."

"So, everything Deputy Chief of Staff Cheng said is true?"

"It sounds good, but don't overlook the fact that the Jiangnan Base has a small population because it's extremely dangerous. A single beast tide could wipe it out."

Zhou You, narrowing his eyes, remarked, "Shouldn't the higher-ups prioritize defense construction here? Are they waiting for the beast tide to destroy Jiangnan Base?"

Shao Qi was pleased by his concerns, interpreting them as signs of Zhou You's dedication to his country. The decisions made by the Jiangnan Base had their pros and cons, but it was certainly an effective solution to the population crisis.

Many in the team were tempted. Some were exhausted and didn't wish to continue their journey; others thought of their families, hoping they'd be looked after if they themselves were to perish.

To divert their attention, Li Hongxi said, "On our way here, we were ambushed. Thanks to Mr. Shao, we were saved. We left the bodies behind, but I suspect they were from Jiangnan Base. Does Deputy Chief of Staff Cheng recognize any of them?"

Li Hongxi showed Cheng Zi'ang photos of Xiong Yi and his men, thinking deeply. If these individuals held significant influence in Jiangnan Base, then they couldn't stay.

By pointing out that Shao Qi killed them, he expressed his concern about potential retribution from their associates.

Shao Qi nodded in agreement, "I did kill them. They were all on the national wanted list. Deputy Chief of Staff Cheng must have heard of 'Master Wei'. They were his disciples."

Recognizing Xiong Yi from the photos, Cheng Zi'ang was taken aback. He had met him before since his wife was also a follower of the Celestial Church, to which Xiong Yi was an elder.

He exclaimed, "Is Master Wei the shadowy figure behind the Celestial Church? Some returnees have claimed that they perform human sacrifices. Not many believed, though."

"It's true. The workers sent back were forced to construct caves. Master Wei wanted to use their lives for his dark practices. At that time, I was nearby and coordinated with Captain Yao of the Flame Troop to rescue them. But unfortunately, less than half were saved."

Cheng Zi'ang realized the gravity of the situation, "Did Master Wei escape? I've heard he's elusive and powerful. His photo isn't even on the wanted poster."

Keeping some details to himself, Shao Qi said, "Master Wei, or Wei Lanjun as you might know him, managed to flee, likely to the Jiangnan Base. You should inform Commander Ren and keep a close watch on the Celestial Church. It's the perfect time to capture him. Also, this cult is banned by the state, and you must take action against it."

Cheng Zi'ang, drenched in sweat, replied, "I'll note down everything you've said and will inform Commander Ren. Handling religious matters can be tricky, but I'll do my best."

Throughout the meal, while everyone else was lost in thought, Zhou You relished his food, even picking up a few new recipes before finally putting down his chopsticks, satisfied.

After the meal, Cheng Zi'ang arranged for Li Hongxi and his team to rest in the best guesthouse available. He also sent representatives to console the other ordinary citizens, ensuring no stone was left unturned.

Zhou You and Shao Qi checked into the same guesthouse, occupying its finest room. However, Cheng Zi'ang seemed to have misunderstood their relationship and arranged just one room for both of them.

Looking at the only bed in the room, Zhou You remarked with a hint of frustration, "Do I look like I'm here to warm your bed?"

Shao Qi, stifling a laugh, responded, "Yes! If you don't believe me, ask around. I bet nine out of ten people would think so."

"Why didn’t you correct him?"

"How can one clearly explain such things? And since you're my driver, bodyguard, and cook, might as well add bedmate to the list. With you here, they won’t think of offering me any company."

"Sheesh, it seems power plays are everywhere," Zhou You commented sarcastically. "Aren't I interrupting your plans? How are we going to share one bed?"

Shao Qi, taking off his jacket and sprawling comfortably on the bed, said, "Why bother about such details when traveling? What's wrong with two grown men sharing a bed? Remember, while on the road we didn't even have a comfortable bed. You should be grateful."

Zhou You had to admit that made sense. Having not slept on a soft bed for ten years, he took a refreshing shower, changed into clean pajamas, and fell asleep the moment he hit the bed, unaware even when Shao Qi left the room.

Chapter 045: Entering the City

The commander of the Jiangnan Military Zone, Ren Zhiyuan, was appointed from the central government. In the Dawn's First Year, Marshal Shao led the Fireflame troops in various battles. Not only were many factions overthrown, but the armed forces of all bases were reshuffled, and now most of the leaders in major military zones were centrally appointed.