Chapter 368: The Rising Undercurrent

Han Chang recounted everything he had witnessed that day to Xiao Honglian and Wei Dinghai.

He had already shared these details with Zheng Yixian before, but at the time, both had dismissed the activity as the remnants of West Hill Base's scattered forces.

Han Chang had no interest in getting involved in the conflicts of other bases and left shortly after, unaware of subsequent developments.

It wasn’t until the coalition attacked and revealed the deaths of Wang Ruixuan and Gao Yuan in separate incidents that Zheng Yixian realized something was amiss.

Wei Dinghai’s expression darkened as he processed the story. “Are you suggesting that West Hill Base wasn’t entirely wiped out? That they’ve been regrouping in secret?”

“Impossible,” Xiao Honglian interjected.

“Their shelter was obliterated by missiles. Any survivors wouldn’t have enough resources to rebuild, let alone target both of our factions at the same time.”

She crossed her arms with a cold smirk. “Even in their prime, Chen Xinian wouldn’t have dared.”

Zheng Yixian’s tone deepened. “Perhaps it’s not West Hill Base’s remnants, but another faction that seized their territory after the battle.”

“They might not even be aware of the major shelters outside Lu River and West Hill Districts. If they knew, I doubt they’d have made such a bold move against you.”

---

Zheng Yixian’s theory gave Xiao Honglian and Wei Dinghai pause.

Though the idea seemed far-fetched, it was the most plausible explanation given the circumstances.

When all other possibilities are eliminated, no matter how improbable the remaining scenario, it must be closest to the truth.

For years, the major factions had maintained a delicate balance, avoiding direct conflict.

Who else but an outsider would dare to provoke two major bases by killing their Superhumans?

---

“Lu River District…” Xiao Honglian murmured, her voice barely audible.

Her mind raced back to the reports from their scouts about heavy fighting near the border of Lu River and West Hill Districts.

If they investigated that area, they might uncover the clues they sought.

Wei Dinghai, meanwhile, frowned as he tried to recall a piece of intelligence that seemed relevant but remained frustratingly elusive—something that once seemed trivial but now appeared significant.

---

Recognizing the stalemate, neither side was eager to incur further losses.

Both leaders agreed to retreat and investigate Zheng Yixian’s claims about Lu River District.

Xiao Honglian pointed sternly at Zheng Yixian. “This isn’t over. We’ll investigate, but if I find out your people were involved, I’ll return and burn your base to the ground.”

Han Chang couldn’t hold back. “Bring it on! Next time, you’ll leave here in body bags!”

Xiao Honglian shot him a contemptuous smile before turning away, leading her forces out without another word.

Wei Dinghai followed suit, his cold smirk lingering as he directed his troops to withdraw.

Though both factions had temporarily disengaged, they would undoubtedly return if provoked.

For now, their mission had been a partial success—significantly depleting the cult’s forces while keeping their own losses manageable.

---

On the Road Back

Xiao Honglian and Wei Dinghai discussed their next moves.

“The cult’s growth is too rapid. That so-called prophet is brainwashing survivors left and right,” Wei Dinghai remarked.

Xiao Honglian snorted. “That zealot should’ve been dealt with long ago. Not only is she recruiting survivors, but even my slaves are trying to escape to her sanctuary.”

“Fools,” she added disdainfully. “They think there’s a ‘heaven’ in the apocalypse? Without strength, they’re just cannon fodder wherever they go.”

Wei Dinghai chuckled. “And often, those who preach ‘for your own good’ are the ones to exploit you most mercilessly.”

The convoy soon reached a fork in the road where the two factions would part ways.

Before leaving, Wei Dinghai asked, “What’s your plan from here?”

Xiao Honglian gave a cryptic smile. “Isn’t it obvious? None of us can ignore this.”

Wei Dinghai shrugged. “I was suggesting we work together. If there’s truly a strong force in Lu River District, going solo could be risky.”

Though Chaoyu Base dominated the seas, their land-based strength was limited, often relying on Yangsheng Base for support.

Xiao Honglian neither agreed nor declined. “We’ll investigate further and decide then.”

She trusted her own judgment over the cult’s claims.

“Let me know if you change your mind,” Wei Dinghai said. “With Chen Xinian gone, together we could take control of Tianhai City in no time.”

Xiao Honglian dismissed the notion with a wave, ordering her troops to return to Yangsheng Base.

---

As her convoy disappeared into the distance, Wei Dinghai exhaled a frosty breath. “What a fierce woman. If I could bring her to heel, Tianhai City would be mine.”

A pale, soft-featured man stepped forward—Chen Jingguan, Wei Dinghai’s deputy.

“Leader, she’s hiding something from us.”

Wei Dinghai’s eyes gleamed briefly, then he laughed. “Of course she is. Trust is a luxury none of us can afford.”

His smile grew sly. “Besides, I think I’ve remembered something.”

“Whoever clashed with West Hill Base near Lu River... it’s likely that once insignificant player we overlooked.”

Author's Note