Chapter 209: A Sadly Thick Layer Separates Us

He once again delivered a dramatic speech that no one believed but had to be said, and Ji Ming, with a look of compassion, pushed the two pieces of armor over.

"I hope it can serve its greatest purpose in your hands, Holy Gate."

A place of controversy, although everyone was watching, no one dared to keep this expensive luxury item worth ten thousand gold coins.

Consequently, several guards hurried forward and swiftly sealed it into a lockbox with a magical lock.

This city‑wide annual big deal finally concluded, and the Rest Room's atmosphere instantly lightened.

Sitting in the very center, the man who called himself Vice President quietly pulled Ji Ming into a corner.

"Divine‑Chosen Sir, you know as well, we are after all merchants, so could you give us a definitive word about this armor…"

Ji Ming performed the Holy Light rite and let out a slight sigh.

"The Lord is merciful; he says that as long as everyone is devout enough, the radiant glory can be bestowed again."

"Heavens, praise the Holy Light!"

The Vice President smiled knowingly and took a foil‑stamped invitation from his coat.

"Near the end of the year, Mr. Suo La is preparing to host a dinner at his own residence, inviting the notable figures of Sunlight City to attend, and hopes you can grace the occasion…"

"Since it is Mr. Suo La's invitation, as an old friend I naturally must attend; please convey my regards."

Ji Ming took the invitation, and the moment his fingers brushed it, an ominous premonition rose in his mind.

"…Why does it feel like something bad is about to happen?"

However, he did not let his doubts show on his face, merely smiling and giving a slight gesture.

"Could you reveal which guests have received invitations this time?"

As a result, the Vice President rattled off a long string of names, some Ji Ming had heard, others he hadn't.

Suo La truly spares no distinction, listing guests from the three Inner City families to Sheng Guang Jiao Tang, and even the goblin Reno, a newcomer who only entered the power circle amid the chaos.

Calling it a Hongmen Banquet, looking around all the various factions are present, making it impossible to form a scenario where the strong bully the weak.

Calling it a toast to military authority, relying only on a tax minister Ke Li Si Ting, the Commercial Union would still struggle to dominate the scene.

Could it be that this old slick thinks the time has come to announce his primary status in Sunlight City to everyone?

Fine, we'll see when the time comes.

After a couple more polite words, the Vice President took the initiative to excuse himself.

He left another lockbox on the table, then led the members of the Commercial Union out in a line.

In less than a minute, the sound of horses and carriages whinnied outside, and the clamor gradually receded.

Ji Ming lifted the box and weighed it; even with fifteen points of stamina, this three‑hundred‑plus‑jin object would be a strain on the hand.

Sitting on the sofa beside him, he opened the leather case; even merely under the lamp's glow, its brilliance was dazzling.

He casually grabbed two and rubbed them together; the sound was crisp, melodious, and extremely pleasant to the ear.

Although, because he holds two jobs, he can enjoy a basic salary of twenty thousand daily and a hefty bonus totaling two million at month's end.

But those are just numbers on bank cards and Feixin accounts; compared with the gold coins before him, they are still too "illusory".

Ji Ming, at twenty‑eight years old, was experiencing for the first time the feeling of not knowing how to spend money.

"Oh, what a wonderful day~"

Nevertheless, even though he is now one of Sunlight City's "big shots", the weight of ten thousand gold coins is somewhat too heavy.

Wealth moves hearts; with such a bait, he fears he cannot comfortably return to the Clinic.

After all, post‑event threats and assassinations are also part of the auction; a proper plan is needed.

But while he was pondering, the Rest Room's door was knocked again.

No way, could anyone still dare to rush into the church and loot?

After locking the lockbox, Ji Ming placed it into the storage ring inherited from Edgar.

He activated "Saint's Judgment" and glanced outside, seeing Bishop Te Nisi.

"Let's hold a meeting about the Evil God altar."

In fact, after learning of Ji Ming and Ellie's encounter yesterday morning, Sheng Guang Jiao Tang took it quite seriously.

Especially after receiving an anonymous map at dusk that perfectly matched current intelligence, they immediately dispatched personnel to verify.

As a millennial, unshakable veteran organization, the Holy Light Church's biggest operational core is the concept of "stability".

Previously Bishop Te Nisi was absent, leaving only Priest Sterling, so they simply held their positions and amassed strength.

Later, with preliminary intel, they did not rush to alert the enemy, but first sent scouts to confirm the location and situation.

Now all forces are present, and with such a clear map, further concealment would betray the name of the Holy Light.

So after a night of reconnaissance, they originally intended this morning to discuss with Ji Ming the matter of subduing the Evil God altar.

Who knew the controversy over the Talisman Armor would arise, dragging the discussion out until noon.

Following Bishop Te Nisi to the secret room in the church's basement, a sand table was placed at the center.

From the dark forest outside the city to the landmark buildings inside, everything of Sunlight City was meticulously mapped on it.

Even the old address of Wai Shu Clinic was carefully reproduced, with a note beside it reading "Weird Werewolf Vanishing Site".

As a former holy knight, the missionary knights led by Priest Sterling constitute Sheng Guang Jiao Tang's enforcement arm.

Last night he personally led a team, and under Ellie's guidance, traversed Sunlight City all night, drafting a rough battle plan.

Ji Ming examined the sand table and discovered the opponent intended to eliminate all altars and strongholds within a single night.

But the most terrifying part isn't that; according to the plan, he truly possesses the ability to see the mad scheme through to completion!

Either he doesn't act, or he wipes them out in one sweep; such a method truly lives up to being swift and decisive.

Could it be that any border priest of the Holy Light Church possesses this level, then what kind of monster nest exists within the Royal Capital's clergy?

Even though Wendigo behaved properly last night, promising to withdraw, how could Ji Ming possibly trust Lao Yang Tou's words?

After all, anyone who has read history knows many have announced withdrawals, but few actually follow through.

Just like a bag of chips looks plump, yet is mostly air.

We can't just dawdle and skim another fee, or quietly set a trap for the locals and then walk away.

Besides, as a good neighbor, arranging an excellent moving company to help the elderly move their stuff isn't it only natural?

But to maintain his persona, Ji Ming did not fully take part in the battle plan discussions.

He only occasionally offered some interesting suggestions, nudging a bit.

The Holy Light Church is well‑versed in wiping out such things, so they quickly finalized a comprehensive operation plan.

"Choosing an auspicious day is pointless; let's strike tonight and resolve all the rampaging beast incidents."

"We've tolerated these bastards' mischief for far too long; it's time they pay the price!"

Siling felt his hands itch for a fight; after finishing his harsh words, he went to order the church guard knights to mobilize.

After finishing the coffee in the cup, Ai Li Nuo took another gold‑foiled envelope from her pocket.

"Did you also receive the New Year's Eve banquet invitation? It's an important part of aristocratic networking; remember to prepare thoroughly."

It feels like back when we played *Mount & Blade*, a "banquet" was the best occasion to contact allies and flirt with girls…

But for Ji Ming now, Sunlight City no longer has suitable allies to develop with, so he'll just sit and watch the show.

Ai Li Nuo naturally also had to take part in tonight's operation; she reminded Ji Ming to remember proper etiquette, then pushed the door open and left.

The moment the door closed, Te Ni Si released a spell that sealed off the area.

"Outside the church there are many idle people lingering; although I've already sent people to drive them away, they can only be expelled from the church grounds."

Saying that, she unleashed a technique called "Holy Light Declaration", inviting the deity to listen as a notarization.

"To ensure safety, I suggest you donate ten thousand gold coins to the church; we'll keep them for you, and you can withdraw as needed."

Ji Ming thought it over carefully and realized that, odd as it sounded, it was indeed a solution.

Only other chosen ones in history have taken money from the church; why does he have to top up ten thousand himself…

Finding it absurd as well, Te Ni Si took a full set of sheepskin garments from his storage bracelet.

"Do you still remember our agreement? You won."

"From today onward, the church will continuously supply you with sheepskin, whether you need raw material or finished goods; theoretically unlimited."

"…just as long as you don't disdain my craftsmanship."

Taking the sheepskin clothing, Ji Ming steeled himself before inspecting it.

Then.

Battle!

Grandma, which brand did you work for as a designer? How can it be so powerful even when not worn!

And for some reason, the workmanship of this piece doesn't resemble Te Ni Si's shoddy craft at all.

On the contrary, it lacks the classic crooked, repeatedly assembled seams; the stitching and style are arranged quite meticulously.

It's a high‑end artwork fit for a runway, capable of instantly outshining any show, a self‑affirmation of elegance.

Seeing the demonic succubus with an odd demeanor and evasive eyes, Ji Ming began to suspect something.

She had once tried to suppress her talent; now that she knows this thing is used as lining, she's letting herself go, right?

"It's fine, I… everyone will like it, hmm."

Having completed a donation ceremony that could move ten billion old believers to tears, Ji Ming left the Holy Light Church with five hundred spare coins.

Even with targeted publicity and hype, this extremely generous donation became known to everyone in Sunlight City.

Yet watching the surrounding revelry and the crowd receiving free communion, Ji Ming could still feel a few unfriendly glances.

But how could the loyal church guard knights allow their patron to be in danger?

A line of fine horses marched side by side, escorting Ji Ming back to the Clinic in the most splendid carriage.

If the last parade was somewhat ceremonially rigid, this time is pure glory and bragging.

With music and drums along the way, the convoy slowly returned to the Clinic.

Renowned for teasing, Lei Nuo dared not speak, merely standing at the doorway with his mouth open.

The werewolf baker next door was kneading flour‑covered hands, moving somewhat stiffly.

The patients in the Clinic stared blankly, some even leaving after hesitating.

Stepping down from the carriage, seeing neighbors with familiar faces but unfamiliar expressions, Ji Ming slightly frowned.

He pushed open the Clinic doors and habitually waved.

"Sorry, we have other urgent matters today, thank you for waiting; we will now…"

But before he could finish, several more patients couldn't help but run away.

Damn, it's true I've just become a ten‑thousand‑coin household, but does a small copper coin not count as money?

Seeing his daily earnings shrink, Ji Ming quickly grabbed a teenager who was limping from a leg injury.

"Friend, why are you all leaving? Is it because you think I'm cured now?"

The teen, terrified, nearly collapsed, his face turning pale, lips trembling.

"I just think… Great Chosen One, it wouldn't be right to bother you over such a trivial matter, right?"

"…"

Ji Ming's expression grew solemn as he loosened the teen's collar.

Watching the other limp away, stumbling, he sighed.

He knew a sorrowful thick barrier now separated them…

Other patients, either fearing the chaotic place or shrinking from dealing with a big figure, left the Clinic after a dry farewell.

In the end, only AdaiEr stood at the staircase, at a loss.

"Doctor…"

Looking at her pale pink eyes, Ji Ming made up his mind.

"Come over, let's have a small meeting as well."

He led AdaiEr to the deepest, most heavily guarded decoction room of the Clinic, and pulled out two chairs.

"Sit."

Seeing that AdaiEr was still hesitating, Ji Ming had to press her shoulder.

"Today I'm going to spar with Zhu Luo, not to roll around in a pigpen; I'm still human!"

After she sat down calmly and steadily, he lowered his voice again.

"AdaiEr, what do you think healing and saving people is like?"

"Um... good, a good thing?"

Perhaps fearing that Ji Ming would think she was being perfunctory, AdaiEr quickly added.

"Now Sunlight City is full of people in need; possessing medical skill and selflessly helping others is, of course, a great thing!"

"Hmm."

Having heard that, Ji Ming nodded.

"Then AdaiEr, do you want to become a doctor?"

"Become... a doctor?"

"Actually, I know that when you clean during the day, you always linger here for a particularly long time; and when I perform surgery on patients, you watch very attentively, not blinking an eye."

"You really want to become a doctor, don't you, AdaiEr?"

In her stunned gaze, Ji Ming stood up, took a white coat from the small wardrobe, and spread it on the table beside them.

"Then, after a month of intensive study and training, at least in Sunlight City, I think your medical skill is ready for graduation."

Saying that, Ji Ming felt the weight in his heart gradually settle.

Some things are now ready to be formally handed over to others…