Since the man had thrust the ring over for him to see, He Lingchuan might as well look openly.

Mm-hm, it really is Shao Jian’s ring. Even the tiny, inconspicuous hollow beside the spiral ridge is exactly the same.

Fang Canran’s overreaction proved that he not only knew this ring’s origins very well, but also understood exactly what would happen if those origins were exposed.

Just from his attitude, He Lingchuan had already obtained most of the answer.

Now what?

Seeing him remain silent, Fang Canran pressed again, “What organization are you from? Why do you recognize my ring? What is your purpose in approaching me?”

He Lingchuan smiled bitterly. “Fine, fine. You win. I’ll talk.” All I did was look at your ring twice! Just twice!

“Speak.”

He Lingchuan seemed to steady himself. “I was sent here to find you. Our previous meetings were only tests. The contact phrase is: singing wildly, drinking freely, body feels light; never asking wind or rain for peace.[1]”

The moment those last fourteen words left his mouth, Fang Canran’s pupils contracted violently. He blurted, “Y-you, how do you know that phrase?”

“It was written in the secret letter.” He Lingchuan moved his arm. “Left middle finger, storage ring.”

After hearing that earth-shattering passphrase, Fang Canran’s desire to uncover the truth instantly multiplied severalfold. He Lingchuan was seated...