Chapter 20

Under normal circumstances, the registration process for extraordinary individuals was lengthy and complex. It involved a series of official checks to verify the existence of extraordinary powers, classify the individual’s abilities, and determine their rank and benefits.

However, every rule has its exceptions.

In full view of everyone, Xu Xi effortlessly subdued a Foundation-Building Realm monster with a single hand. The sheer oppressive power he displayed left everyone present in stunned silence, too shocked to even gasp.

Moments later, Xu Xi was respectfully escorted to the branch director’s office. Someone brought him a cup of hot tea, politely informing him that the director would arrive shortly.

“Well, that saved me quite a bit of time,” Xu Xi mused, taking a sip of tea as he sat on the soft leather chair.

He didn’t mind following the rules and completing the registration process step by step, but skipping straight to the end was undeniably better. After all, who enjoys wasting time?

With his eyes closed, Xu Xi reflected on the earlier events. “The Foundation-Building Realm monster escaped, yet the local authorities couldn’t handle it immediately. And judging by their attitude toward me, it’s clear that Golden Core cultivators—or those at that level—are still rare in the real world. At least, that seems to be the case in Yanshan City.”

This realization gave Xu Xi a clearer understanding of his standing in the current era.

After about ten minutes, the door opened, and a middle-aged man with a square face entered hurriedly, his excitement barely contained.

“Sorry for keeping you waiting, Mr. Xu!” the man said warmly. “I’m Zhang Yaoguo, director of the Extraordinary Control Bureau of Yanshan City.”

Xu Xi stood and extended his hand, shaking Zhang Yaoguo’s firmly. “A pleasure to meet you, Director Zhang. I’m Xu Xi.”

The middle-aged man’s expression visibly relaxed. As the head of the local bureau, Zhang Yaoguo had dealt with many arrogant and difficult individuals over the years, people who let their extraordinary abilities inflate their egos.

When he heard that a Golden Core-level cultivator had come to join the bureau, Zhang was both excited and apprehensive about what kind of person Xu Xi might be. Now, seeing Xu Xi’s polite demeanor, Zhang realized there was a real opportunity for fruitful cooperation.

“Please, have a seat, Mr. Xu.”

Both men sat across from each other at the large, dark desk.

Director Zhang took a moment to compose himself, his tone becoming formal and professional. “I’ve been briefed on the events earlier. On behalf of the Yanshan City Bureau, I want to express our gratitude for your assistance in subduing the escaped monster.”

He paused briefly, then continued, “I’ve also heard that you’re interested in joining the bureau. If that’s the case, I’ll need to ask you a few routine questions.”

“I am,” Xu Xi confirmed. “Feel free to ask whatever you need.”

Zhang’s excitement grew. In the five years since the revival of spiritual energy, the nation had produced many powerful individuals. However, most of them were claimed by other branches, with the capital’s central bureau taking the lion’s share. This left regional branches like Yanshan’s with limited resources.

It was no wonder the escaped Foundation-Building Tiger Demon had caused such chaos. There simply weren’t enough capable people to handle it.

The prospect of a Golden Core cultivator joining the bureau was a game-changer.

“First question,” Zhang began, “how did you awaken your abilities?”

“I was sleeping at home when I suddenly received the inheritance of an immortal cultivator,” Xu Xi replied calmly. “Overnight, I broke through and condensed a Golden Core.”

Zhang’s eyes widened slightly. “That’s… extraordinary luck. Do you know anything about the immortal cultivator?”

“Only that he was from a sect called the Heavenly Sword Sect. I don’t know much else,” Xu Xi admitted.

“Understood,” Zhang said, nodding. “One final question: could you demonstrate your Golden Core cultivation?”

“Of course.”

Xu Xi extended his hand, allowing the golden energy of his Core to circulate. The aura of his Golden Core radiated, a bright golden light filling the room. It was accompanied by the unmistakable manifestation of his natal magical power.

There was no room for doubt.

The golden light, the energy of the Core, and the unique power of a Golden Core cultivator left Zhang completely convinced.

“A genuine Golden Core Realm cultivator!” Zhang’s face lit up with joy.

With all his concerns dispelled, Zhang quickly moved on to discuss the terms of Xu Xi’s membership, including compensation and potential responsibilities.

The offered package was generous: a monthly salary of 300,000 Chinese coins, with additional rewards for completing tasks or engaging in official collaborations.

Moreover, members gained access to the “Extraordinary House,” a secure marketplace exclusively for extraordinary individuals. Transactions in the Extraordinary House required points, a unique currency earned through bureau contributions.

Golden Core cultivators like Xu Xi received 1,000 points monthly, which could be used to exchange for cultivation resources, information, or other valuable items.

“The Extraordinary House points are far more valuable than the salary,” Xu Xi thought.

The arrangement suited him perfectly. It was a mutually beneficial partnership: he provided his strength, and the bureau provided resources.

After formally signing the contract and registering his information, Xu Xi officially became a member of the Yanshan City Extraordinary Management Bureau.

Director Zhang’s joy was evident. “Hahaha, we’re colleagues now, Mr. Xu,” he said warmly. “Your presence will make things much easier for us. No more frequent requests for assistance from the central bureau!”

He continued, “The first month’s salary and points will be credited to your account shortly. And, as a token of appreciation for suppressing the Foundation-Building Tiger Demon, I’d like to present you with this.”

Zhang handed Xu Xi a small storage ring.

Curious, Xu Xi examined its contents and raised an eyebrow. The items inside were unexpectedly generous.

Suppressing a grin, he said, “Director Zhang, you’re too kind. This reward… I’ll make good use of it.”

“Haha, Brother Xu, you’re too modest. It’s nothing compared to your talents!”

The two exchanged smiles, their laughter filling the office as they solidified their new alliance.