"They are intent on preserving the exceptional status of martial artists."

"They want us to be beneath them, forever their slaves!"

"Our national hero, our idol, Marshal Shao, has killed more people than mutated beasts. Back in the day, in order to consolidate central power, bases with independent governance faced the suppression led by Marshal Shao. Countless experts from various sects died at his hands."

He eliminated any opposition, killing all who resisted his rule, annihilating sects that didn't obey. In cahoots with the Martial Arts Association, the Central Research Institute is also under his control. Just how vast is his power?

Think about it deeply: he's just one step away from becoming divine. But does such a perfect person truly exist?

He prefers men, a true homosexual. Yet, in a time of declining birth rates, countless women sacrifice to improve fertility, but our national hero, Marshal Shao, is gay.

How ironic is that! Speaking of the Marshal's spouse, or let's just call him that, he's rumored to be an incredibly talented individual. Two exceptional men, both not passing on their superior genes. Isn't that a loss for humanity?"

Zhou Huajin couldn't bear to listen any longer, instructed Zhou You to stay home, and then drove away.

Zhou Yichen came down from upstairs, sitting opposite Zhou You in silence, his mind brimming with questions, but words escaped him.

Zhou You wasn’t in the mood to deal with his younger brother and was engrossed in news on his phone.

"Are... are you guys really doing the right thing?" Zhou Yichen asked uneasily.

Zhou You glanced up at him, noting that Zhou Yichen had grown considerably over the past six months. It wouldn't be long before he surpassed Zhou You in height. Indeed, martial artists have robust physiques.

"If you're asking about this recent matter, I wasn't involved. As for Shao Qi, I believe he has a clear conscience."

"Alright, I trust you."

Zhou You smiled and pulled a stone from his pocket, handing it over. "I found this outside. It's quite beautiful. I thought I’d give it to you."

"What's this junk?" Zhou Yichen remarked with disdain while taking the stone, surprised by its multicolored appearance. "With a master craftsman's touch, this could become something exquisite."

"Thanks, given its rarity, I'll accept it."

Standing up, Zhou You ruffled Zhou Yichen’s hair, advising, "Don't be easily swayed by external opinions. Always work towards what you truly believe in. We can't claim to be noble, but we can certainly do our best within our abilities."

"Don't make it sound like a political class; we always say those are brainwashing sessions."

Zhou You laughed, "Only the unsuccessful would call it brainwashing. It's the elevation of thought."

Zhou Yichen was about to retort when he noticed a familiar face on the live broadcast. His father strode onto the stage, snatched the microphone, and declared, "Enough! Would you rather trust the words of an actor who earns a living from performances or have faith in your country?

As the head of Yangcheng Court, I tell you, the people's interests are above any elite family's. Many are striving to improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens.

Personal improvement is the best way forward. I'm in my fifties, yet I still train daily. I've grown two centimeters taller than I was a year ago. What does that signify? It means my body is evolving."

Even if I remain insignificant, perhaps never reaching the standard of a novice warrior in my lifetime, what does it matter? All I desire is to know that I am accepted by the laws of nature and that I've adapted to this new world. That alone is enough.

"Is it realistic to expect external forces to change everything? Technology might continuously advance, but is it genuinely beneficial if the human body remains unchanged?"

The crowd at the square recognized Judge Zhou, but he bore another identity.

"Don’t listen to him! He's Zhou You's father and Shao Qi's father-in-law. They're family; his words cannot be trusted."

"And what about what I say?" A man dressed in military attire emerged from the crowd. His uniform was meticulous, with a famous blade hanging at his waist. Every step he took in his black boots resounded with a distinct footfall.

Steady and powerful; that's what everyone discerned from the sound of his steps.

"It's the Marshal!" someone exclaimed in surprise.

Coming face to face with this military leader stirred emotions among the crowd. Why was he in Yang City? Wasn't it said he had returned to Dawn City?

Had he come especially for today's parade? Did it mean he had heard the voices of the citizens?

Someone boldly asked, "Marshal, can you tell us the truth? I am inclined to believe what you say."

Shao Qi stepped onto the stage, bowed to Zhou Hua Jin, who in turn patted him reassuringly on the shoulder, giving him the platform.

"I came here today to show you the truth. Soon, you'll see it." Suddenly, Shao Qi grabbed an actor by the neck, effortlessly lifting him off the ground.

The audience was stunned, thinking Shao Qi's anger might lead to murder.

"Marshal Shao..."

"Lord Marshal..."

"Please, no!"

But Shao Qi didn't kill him. He simply lifted him as easily as one would a feather and gently set him down.

Adjusting his white gloves and without needing a microphone, he declared, "Do you know what my power level is?"

With his hands in his pockets, standing tall on the platform, he confidently said, "An average adult male's power level is around 500. Mine? It's close to 500,000. Can you fathom that?"

Meeting the awe-struck gaze of the crowd, Shao Qi calmly stated, "See that commercial building behind me? I could dismantle it bare-handedly. Even the mightiest of mutated beasts can't withstand a punch from me."