Blood Queen

September 26th, Thursday, noon.

A logistics compound, Western Surveillance District command headquarters office building, Intelligence Department, Information Division.

In the conference room, several blurry videos continued playing repeatedly on the large screen–partial footage from the military hospital siege operation three weeks ago.

Han Xiao had been here for nearly a week, staying almost every day except to go home for meals and sleep, reviewing various materials from that disastrous defeat.

"Third Sister, the Intelligence Department's post-processed videos are ready!"

Han Jieli pushed through the door, carrying a thermal container in his left hand and holding up a portable hard drive with his right, his expression somewhat helpless: "There are so many videos waiting for post-processing, but you insist on squatting here looking at a pile of raw footage. This is inefficient work."

"I'm free anyway. Quick, connect it. I've done preliminary screening these past few days. Let's check the post-processing effects on these videos according to my list."

As she spoke, Han Xiao reached for the hard drive in Han Jieli's hand, but he pulled it behind his back.

"Eat first. It's almost one o'clock in the afternoon."

Han Jieli smiled as he opened the thermal container and took out a lunch box.

Han Xiao rolled her eyes directly, having no choice but to accept the lunch box. She opened it, took a deep sniff, showing a satisfied expression, though her words didn't match her feelings: "Hmm, Mom hasn't come back yet, so this must be Dad's cooking. It's terrible."

Han Jieli sat across from Han Xiao, crossing his hands on the table with a smiling face: "You stay here every day, leaving the Embroidered Uniform Squad behind. Is that okay?"

Looking up at her cousin, then lowering her head to chew slowly, Han Xiao's tone was somewhat low: "I'm on forced leave, where else can I go... I'm like a phoenix that's fallen from grace, worse than a chicken. The Embroidered Uniform Squad is now withdrawn from combat readiness duty, resting and replenishing personnel. Deputy Squad Leader Bai is watching, so there's nothing to worry about."

"Mmm, I heard from Third Uncle that from now on, all Shadow Arrow action squads will be evaluated quarterly, and rare blood type personnel supplements will no longer follow egalitarian principles... This has completely turned into a war of attrition."

Han Jieli sighed softly, putting his hands behind his head and shaking it slightly: "Ordinary blood type Shadow Arrow members can only receive a maximum of thirty anti-blood infection immune medication injections before mandatory retirement, and their anti-blood infection effectiveness is much worse. Dealing with Attendants depends entirely on luck. This definitely isn't a solution."

"Such nonsense... Before anti-blood infection immune medication was invented, didn't Shadow Arrow forces fight to the death anyway?"

Han Xiao grabbed a napkin to wipe the corners of her mouth, her face full of disdain. As she spoke, she reached for the work computer beside her: "Xiao Li, connect the hard drive and watch with me... Hey, speaking of which, aren't you an intelligence staff officer? You should be actively helping me with this work!"

Han Jieli, drafted into service, could only grimace as he took the computer mouse.

"Stop! Yes, screenshot this frame!"

"No good, this section is still too blurry."

"Right, right, right! This one, zoom in, zoom in!"

Han Xiao's pen kept tapping the table while Han Jieli dutifully followed her instructions, separating out content that caught her interest.

By nearly evening, the material screening work finally came to a pause. Han Jieli rubbed his shoulders helplessly: "Over a hundred battlefield recording videos… This is killing me."

Ignoring her cousin's complaints, Han Xiao enlarged a video screenshot on the screen and stared at it intently. In the image, a mysterious Blood Clan male's body leaped in mid-air, embracing a Blood Clan female's body.

This was the only relatively clear image captured half-way by searchlights, showing considerable detail in both targets' clothing and appearance.

Opening another video clip, the content showed Tao Qiao'er leading Xuan Jia Squad's support company in firefight with external mysterious forces. But the distance was too far, and with almost no lighting conditions, even with post-technical processing, only rough outlines could be made out.

"Their attire looks professional and somewhat familiar... similar to the Blood Clan encountered in that anti-smuggling operation at Y Province border... Black Blood Clan is impossible. Among Orthodox Blood Clan and Wandering Blood Clan, which family has this style..."

Han Xiao fell into deep thought again.

…

…

That evening, Zhou Ping, who should have been resting at home due to her menstrual leave, suddenly returned to Golden River Club.

In the employee break room, Jiang Yao and Xiao Ling were wiping Jiang Yan's body to maintain cleanliness during her dormant state, when they saw Zhou Ping poking her head around the doorway.

"Why are you here Xiao Ping? Aren't you on leave?"

Xiao Ling paused mid-air with the hot towel she was wringing out again, looking puzzled.

"Um, there's something... Sister Xiao Ling, Xiao Yao, I'd like to ask for your help..."

Zhou Ping walked to the bedside, proactively taking the towel from Xiao Ling's hand and began wiping Jiang Yao's thighs while lowering her voice: "Could you lend me some money?"

Zhou Ping, who usually appeared lively and cheerful, now seemed somewhat constrained, especially when mentioning borrowing money, her face red.

"How much?"

Jiang Yao nodded without much thought, but quickly noticed Xiao Ling's hand pressing on her arm.

"Xiao Yao, wait... Xiao Ping, didn't you just buy a house and car in the first half of this year? What big expenses do you have now?"

Xiao Ling, who had a relatively close relationship with Zhou Ping, found it strange that she would suddenly borrow money and felt something was off.

According to Hyacinth's compensation system, veterans like Zhou Ping who had joined Hyacinth for over ten years not only received club wages but could also participate in secret operations, earning substantial special bonuses. On average, her monthly income was at least thirty to forty thousand yuan.

Moreover, Hyacinth members' blood supply was essentially welfare-based. As for expensive internal and external hormone suppressants and other Blood Clan secret medicines, these were distributed free according to need, so most people's daily expenses were actually quite low. Saving several hundred thousand per year was easy.

Years of stable life had allowed many Hyacinth members, including Zhou Ping, to purchase property and cars in the city center, living comfortably. Apart from the safety and growth issues hanging over their heads, almost no one had encountered financial troubles.

But now, Zhou Ping's hesitant money-borrowing behavior made Xiao Ling suspect something was wrong.

"I plan to open a high-end large escape room business with a friend... The house and car purchases in the first half of the year used up most of my savings..."

Zhou Ping quickly explained, nodding awkwardly toward Xiao Ling: "I still need six hundred thousand. I'd like to borrow from everyone in smaller amounts, to be repaid within two years."

"Six hundred thousand isn't much, but Xiao Yao and Xiao Yan haven't bought houses or cars yet. I'll lend you three hundred thousand. You'll need to find other ways for the rest."

Xiao Ling seemed to understand Zhou Ping's expression, smiled slightly, and continued wiping Jiang Yan's body. Jiang Yao on the side was still confused about why Xiao Ling had deflected for her.

After Zhou Ping left the room, Xiao Ling revealed a mysterious smile: "Xiao Yao, did you know Xiao Ping has met an ordinary human boyfriend?"

"I know, she told me a few days ago... Wait, isn't this supposed to be her secret?"

Jiang Yao was stunned, but seeing the other's smiling expression, she laughed helplessly. So this was already common knowledge!

"Ha, actually we're still happy for her. After all, everyone wants to live a more normal life... Xiao Ping is only in her early thirties, still has the heart and mind of a young girl. It's natural to think about these things. Sigh, I'm almost forty and have become indifferent to it all."

She even sighed in a pretentiously mature way.

Uh, I never dared ask Sister Xiao Ling about your age, but you just revealed it yourself... Jiang Yao felt awkward again.

"Hehe, I'm still quite satisfied with my current youthful appearance."

Xiao Ling's expression suddenly changed from mature to clever and mischievous. It seemed that as long as a woman maintained a youthful appearance, her psychology would naturally remain youthful too.

"You and Xiao Yan have such good skin... I don't smell any makeup or skincare products either. The phrase 'natural beauty' was probably made for people like you. So enviable..."

After finishing the wiping, Xiao Ling rearranged Jiang Yan's nightgown, finally showing an envious expression.

Before Jiang Yao could respond, there was a knock at the door behind them. Xiao Ling naturally pulled the blanket to cover Jiang Yan's body.

Ten seconds later, Zhao Peng entered with a cautious expression.

"Xiao Ling, did you just lend three hundred thousand to Xiao Ping?"

Zhao Peng frowned slightly, seemingly sharing Xiao Ling's concerns.

"Yes, I was just about to find you to discuss this, Brother Zhao." Xiao Ling quickly stood up. "She said she wants to partner with someone to open an escape room business, probably with that boyfriend she met. I even had dinner with them once. He's very handsome, a training institution teacher, and his temperament and personality seemed quite good."

"Alright, understood. I'll provide the money she wants to borrow. You don't need to give any."

Zhao Peng thought for a moment, his expression relaxing considerably, though his tone remained somewhat serious: "If you have time, investigate a bit, but don't let Xiao Ping know... Also, I have something to discuss with Xiao Yao privately."

"Okay, Brother Zhao."

Xiao Ling quickly nodded and left without any objection.

"How is your sister today?"

Locking the door, Zhao Peng sat beside the bed, looked at the sleeping Jiang Yan, then turned to Jiang Yao: "Your sister's aura is stable now. You don't need to give her a blood transfusion tonight. Switch the night watch with Xiao Dong tonight."

"Oh, Brother Zhao Peng, is there something happening tonight?"

Seeing his particularly serious expression, Xiao Yao also sat up straight.

"Yes, Sister Wan is leaving for a few days. We'll have dinner together tonight, and there's something important that requires your cooperation." As he spoke, Zhao Peng pointed at Jiang Yao's body: "It's simple… You have a medical checkup."

"Me? A checkup?"

Jiang Yao looked at the sleeping Jiang Yan on the bed, a strong sense of wariness rising in her heart, visible resistance on her face.

"You've been advancing too quickly. Sister Wan and I are both worried."

Zhao Peng spoke lightly, his calm tone carrying concern.

Regarding Zhao Peng's character, Jiang Yao trusted him one hundred percent. Such considerate and well-reasoned words from him instantly soothed Jiang Yao's sensitive nerves.

"Also, these past few months, I've seen you getting along well with everyone... But I need to remind you not to reveal anything about your pasts. You're very special, so protect your privacy well. This is also Sister Wan's intention."

In Zhao Peng's mind appeared the incident of secretly protecting Jiang Yan's trip to the eastern suburbs Martyrs' Cemetery, and some situations he had investigated at W District Children's Welfare Institute.

The Jiang sisters before him were such magical and absurd existences that even with his composure, he couldn't say he was completely unaffected.

Brother Zhao Peng probably means that big meat mass. Of course that can't be told to outsiders. Brother Zhao Peng really is cautious... Jiang Yao was first stunned, then quickly nodded.

Seeing Jiang Yao's expression, Zhao Peng knew her understanding hadn't reached the depth he imagined, so he could only nod.

Wan Yue hadn't revealed certain things, and as one of only two people in the know, Zhao Peng naturally kept absolutely silent. But once facts settled in his mind, they would occasionally resurface, reminding him of something.

He had a premonition that Wan Yue's ideal of creating Hyacinth might truly be realized one day, his hope resting on Jiang Yan and Jiang Yao.

But the prerequisite was that he must help the Jiang sisters develop absolute trust in Wan Yue, wholeheartedly integrate into Hyacinth, and guard their most private secrets. This was the most essential link. Any event that might cause the Jiang sisters to harbor resentment could not be allowed to happen.

Hyacinth should forget the past and look toward the future.

…

…

As night fell, vehicles on the streets crisscrossed rapidly like fireflies, and the entire city emanated a special anxious and reckless atmosphere.

The few days before National Day holidays always had a unique atmosphere. All people and events were hurried and hasty, everyone's thoughts no longer on work, restlessly stirring.

In a luxurious private room at the top-floor revolving restaurant of C City's most luxurious hotel, Zhao Peng stood guard by the door like a bodyguard, eyes straight ahead.

"I've never had Western food..."

Having been specifically chosen by Wan Yue to wear an organza vintage dress before leaving, Jiang Yao sat awkwardly in her seat, looking at the large round table with nearly a two-meter radius and the only two other diners in the private room, visible unease on her face.

"Having a first time is enough. Besides, who says every woman must be elegant? You're here to eat, not to pose for photos. Eat however you want."

Wan Yue, dressed in a black evening gown, glanced at Zhong Jing across from her and rolled her eyes directly: "Problems with last quarter's accounts? Jiang Yao and I have business today. What are you doing following along?"

"Hehe, Master, I can pay the bill..."

Zhong Jing rubbed his nose, speaking insincerely while secretly glancing at Jiang Yao sitting not far from Wan Yue.

"Pursuing certain people is fine as long as it's mutual, so stop playing these ambiguous games."

Looking at the light golden-haired girl beside her, then at the young man diagonally across, Wan Yue's smile was quite mysterious: "Your level of attracting people is indeed impressive, you're doing it right in front of me."

Jiang Yao seemed to understand, her face showing both urgency and anger as she glared at Zhong Jing, nearly bending the incorrectly held knife and fork in her hands.

Dish after dish was served, mostly large plates with small portions—exquisite but incompatible with Blood Clan appetites.

Jiang Yao ate quickly, the combination of dining knife and fork gradually becoming fork and spoon, as this was more convenient to operate.

With such small plating quantities, why need a knife?

Zhong Jing showed no special expression, even performing poorly today with cruder movements, even starting to use his hands, causing the serving waiters to look amazed.

Zhong Jing's worse and cruder dining actions attracted everyone's attention, actually making Jiang Yao, who didn't understand Western dining etiquette, appear much more refined. At least she didn't seem so conspicuous, even making Jiang Yao feel more relaxed, laughing several times.

This child is too shrewd, too good at pretending. He even spares no effort in teasing himself. Though it can be seen through at a glance, he's very considerate of others. Truly a natural romantic... Wan Yue smiled watching this scene, her face showing a satisfied smile, but she sighed slightly in her heart.

"Stop pretending. I find this considerate appearance of yours annoying... Flirting right in front of me?"

Finally, when Zhong Jing accidentally spilled soup on himself and Jiang Yao laughed out loud, Wan Yue also sighed aloud, heavily putting down her knife and fork.

Probably feeling exposed, Zhong Jing grinned as he grabbed a napkin to wipe his mouth, even winking at Jiang Yao.

"I'm going to the restroom. Say whatever you need to say quickly. I still need to take her for business later."

Wan Yue found an excuse to leave, and Zhao Peng knowingly closed the door. Only Jiang Yao and Zhong Jing remained in the private room.

"You deliberately ate so crudely and rudely just to keep me from feeling awkward and conspicuous?"

Jiang Yao said softly, her face slightly red.

"Everyone was watching me, so you didn't need to be nervous. The effect was good."

Zhong Jing casually threw aside his napkin, pulled off his tie, lit a cigarette, and smiled simply and naturally.

"No wonder everyone says you're a playboy, you're too good at pleasing women... No wait, why are you trying to please me! I'm warning you, don't get any ideas!"

Jiang Yao became somewhat incoherent, her expression inexplicably panicked.

"You're the one making a fuss. I haven't said anything yet."

Zhong Jing was stunned and smiled bitterly.

An hour later, with Zhong Jing volunteering to drive escort, Wan Yue and Jiang Yao appeared at Sacred Heart Hospital.

On the top floor's luxury ward area, a young doctor and nurse were already waiting, smilingly welcoming the three of them.

"Deputy Director Jin couldn't make it due to business but has given instructions. I'll serve both ladies."

Private hospital service levels were indeed excellent. As long as the price was right, it truly felt like spring breeze treatment.

"Are you clear on all the details Old Jin mentioned?"

Wan Yue looked at the two medical staff with ordinary human identities, silently nodding to herself, indicating they had honored their agreement.

"Yes, all examination materials can only be delivered to clients personally. The hospital retains no backup data. Please be absolutely assured. Sacred Heart Hospital's protection of client privacy is an absolute commitment."

Without Jiang Yan's companionship, Jiang Yao felt inexplicably nervous from the moment she left, especially in a place like a hospital. Although after experiencing advancement dormancy and knowing that Hyacinth’s leader was trustworthy, Jiang Yao still harbored a sense of helpless panic deep inside.

The so-called checkup was simple, with only one person being examined: Jiang Yao.

For Wan Yue, Hyacinth also possessed secret high-end medical equipment, but for the type of examination needed today, requiring the most precise medical equipment, wasn't something Wan Yue could afford—or rather, wasn't necessary. Old Jin's Sacred Heart Hospital naturally became the best choice.

The most precise MRI test results came out quickly. Looking at the imaging materials, the young doctor showed some tension.

"This lady has an abnormality in her heart area, likely a rare cardiac myoma... No wait, it doesn't quite match either. Very small, but fortunately, we used our hospital's most advanced MRI machine. Whether it's benign still requires more testing.

"Also, there are some abnormalities in the ovarian area. I recommend..."

"No need for recommendations. Destroy all the materials, or I'll smash this place."

Wan Yue said coldly, and Zhao Peng directly followed the young doctor into a side room, as if to monitor his every move.

"Sister Wan... is there something wrong with my body?"

Jiang Yao's face paled somewhat.

"No, you're very healthy. I just wanted to know exactly what makes you special. But whatever we discovered, it's your secret."

Wan Yue stroked Jiang Yao's light golden hair, showing a kind smile. Jiang Yao quickly nodded, a weight lifting from her heart.

Since Jiang Yan was still dormant, naturally Zhao Peng and Jiang Yao shouldn't stay out too long. At Wan Yue's instruction, Zhao Peng took Jiang Yao back early.

Sitting in Zhong Jing's car, Wan Yue didn't specify where to go but stared blankly at the hospital building at one end of the parking lot, frowning deeply.

"Master, is there a problem with Xiao Yao's body?"

After a minute of silence, Zhong Jing couldn't help muttering.

"I don't know, does that soothe your concerns?" Wan Yue didn't turn around, casually dropping the comment. "You're not stupid. You should see my and Zhao Peng's attitude toward the two sisters."

"Yes, they should be very special Blood Clan, Hyacinth's future trump cards." Zhong Jing thought for a moment, nodding slightly. "Brother Zhao and Brother Huang are both tight-lipped. That should be your intention, Master."

"Do you really want to know what makes her special?"

Wan Yue suddenly smiled mysteriously.

"No, that would be boring. Suspense is worth a lifetime of anticipation, don't reveal it early." Zhong Jing shook his head almost without thinking, showing a sly smile. "How about you tell me just before I die?"

"Sigh, you damned little romantic. If you dare say that to her, I'm afraid you'll really succeed in stealing her away. Who knows how many streets Jiang Yan will chase you with a gun... Keep the secrets, whether you know them or not."

"After following around for hours as a tagalong and chatting so much nonsense... Tell me, what did you want to see me about today?"

Zhong Jing grinned, neither agreeing nor disagreeing with Wan Yue's assessment. The atmosphere in the car became somewhat strange.

Wan Yue rolled down the window and lit a cigarette.

"Master, is the Tsurumi Financial Group backed by Blood Clan?" Zhong Jing rarely showed a serious expression. "They sent people to my house. A woman and some strange people."

Wan Yue glanced at Zhong Jing's face and smiled lightly: "That's the major financial backer who helped your father build his empire back then. Whatever they want to do should be your father's concern.

"Xiao Jing, some things I must tell you. That's your right as a Hyacinth member. But some things are useless even if you know them. Your curiosity is too strong. It's both an advantage and a disadvantage.

"You like maintaining suspense and freshness with women, but dig to the bottom of your own affairs without confusion. Tolerant of women, harsh on yourself. No wonder they fall quick."

Zhong Jing became awkward again, his usual thick skin actually reddening slightly.

"Don't think too much for now. At least it won't affect your family's safety. Those Japanese have liked being tied to your father for thirty years. They have no major ill intentions, just after money."

Though Wan Yue's words sounded somewhat reluctant, many hints were in place, and Zhong Jing could only nod silently.

"Let's go. Take me back to the Longquan Mountain villa."

Wan Yue flicked her finger, and the cigarette flew out the window, tracing a beautiful arc.