A few days later, Song Yan arrived at the Ancestral Shadow Studio, where order had already been restored. A mature-looking man with an elegant demeanor was directing and encouraging the crowd in front.

"Our Formless Ancient Race has been a great clan for thousands of years, enduring countless storms. Though we face betrayal from one person now, even without her, the Shadow Studio won't falter!"

Tang Yi stood with his hands behind his back, looking at the Ancient Race disciples in the Shadow Studio, and spoke loudly, "Our clan's honor is everyone's honor, and its disgrace everyone's disgrace. I hope you will quickly take over the Shadow Studio and allow our Formless Ancient Race to resume its observation of the surroundings."

Having said that, he began to walk around the Shadow Studio, and upon seeing Song Yan enter from outside, he quickly stepped forward and said kindly, "Xiao Zhang, I've heard about your situation. Those Sword Alliance disciples have pushed you so hard; surely, one day, you'll pay them back in kind. For now, focus on recovering from your injuries."

After his words, Tang Yi patted Song Yan's shoulder and offered a supportive smile to the young man.

Song Yan said, "Thank you, Chief Steward, but I think I'm mostly recovered and should be able to work now."

Tang Yi smiled and said, "The next clan gathering isn't far off. Have you taken a fancy to any young lady? Our clan has loosened up quite a bit; even if you fancy a female cultivator from outside, we can send someone to arrange a matchmaking."

Song Yan said in surprise, "Really?"

Tang Yi laughed and said, "It seems you really have, youngster. Hahaha! If there's anything you need from me then, feel free to ask."

Song Yan seemed touched by his enthusiasm and deeply said, "Thank you, Chief Steward."

Tang Yi nodded and walked away.

Incidentally, he roughly knew about the significant events happening within his clan. After all, in his impression, Clan Leader Tang Xiaoxuan was not like that before, nor was Ancestor Ningxin's attitude towards the Clan Leader the same.

But such serious matters... how could a steward without a Faceless Mask or an elder title get involved?

Yet, having lived here for many years, with his wife, children, and elderly parents all present here, he was long bound to this place.

As long as the Formless Ancient Race existed, so would he. If it ceased, then he too would perish.

Good and evil, who can manage it? Who can discern it clearly?

He merely wanted to protect his family.

...

Song Yan arrived at the Shadow Studio.

The studio was managed by an Elder, who was currently accounting for the stock of Demon Bird Shadow Puppets.

Nowadays, the Magic Technique of "Hundred Forms Divine Control" combined with Shadow Puppets is the best way to explore. Ancient Race disciples could control anywhere from a dozen to dozens of Shadow Puppets individually.

"Tang Zhang, quickly come over and see what Shadow Puppets you need to replenish."

Song Yan walked over and said with a wry smile, "My disciple's Shadow Puppets are completely depleted, all lost outside."

The Elder said, "No matter, swiftly make your selection, and then follow the unified dispatch to be responsible for monitoring your area."

Afterwards, the Elder suddenly thought of something and added, "If you haven't recovered yet, then give your injuries more time to heal. Our clan now functions like a well-oiled machine with everyone in their respective roles, and there's yet to find a suitable disciple to take your place. Otherwise, I'd arrange for you to handle internal affairs in the Shadow Studio, without needing to venture outside."

Just then, a young lad raised his hand and said, "I can do it!"

Song Yan looked over at the young lad.

The young lad appeared quite dashing and carefree, his eyes filled with a strong desire to prove himself.

In fact, the Shadow Studio divides into external and internal affairs.

Previously, external affairs were more favored, but upon arriving at this second-tier Cultivation Profound Land, the risk of external affairs vastly increased.

From Tang Zhang's memory, Song Yan knew... Tang Zhang had applied multiple times to transfer to internal affairs, only to be rejected. Simply because external affairs required higher trust, and the Formless Ancient Race generally employed those they truly trusted.

And now this eager young lad who stepped forward was Tang Yi's son, Tang Xing.

"You?" The Elder glanced at Tang Xing and said, "You should focus on Skin Making. You lack enough experience in these external affairs; learn more from your seniors and wait for future opportunities."

Tang Xing anxiously said, "Elder, Brother Zhang is gravely injured, and now he desperately needs time to recuperate. I could temporarily take his place, and once he recovers, I'll... return the position to him."

The Elder waved his hand, interrupting, "Inappropriate."

He then looked at Song Yan and said warmly, "Xiao Zhang, if you're still not feeling well, take more rest; we await you here. If you're feeling okay, you could start making a few Shadow Puppets in the studio to recuperate."

Song Yan nodded and said, "Elder, I'll remain in the studio for a few days and attend to duties outside once I'm fully recovered."

On the other side, Tang Xing lowered his eyes slightly, showing a subtle hint of melancholy, and quietly walked away.

This family line wasn't given the Faceless Mask, hence he was born feeling inferior.

Song Yan called, "Tang Xing."

Tang Xing stopped his steps, turned his head, and respectfully said, "Brother Zhang?"

Song Yan smiled and said, "Sit across from me; there's not much internal work, so it's perfect for guiding me."

Tang Xing paused for a moment before slowly sitting down.

...

Song Yan adjusted his skill level to Tang Zhang's, revisiting a day of Skin Making tasks.

He worked at the Skin Making while chatting with Tang Xing. Tang Xing taught him some internal affairs nuances, while he taught Tang Xing the key points to watch out for in external affairs duties. By evening, others came and sought him out for a chat; he gladly engaged in conversations. Having long adapted to the changes in identity, he enjoyed the blend in. The talking mood was rather heavy, and during it, Song Yan heard a young internal affairs disciple whisper from not far away, "I miss home..."

No one responded, but everyone understood where the young disciple's home referred to.

The atmosphere remained somber until, about half a month later, a joyous announcement came from the Ancestral Line, "Ancestor Ningxin has returned."

The return of Ancestor Ningxin directly injected vitality and hope into the Formless Ancient Race disciples, allowing them to find their backbone.

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