Chapter 114: The Birthday Banquet (Two-in-One)

It was a wolf—Chen Xiao did not know much about the subject, so he could not identify the specific species.

The carcass before him had been processed, yet the once-thick fur was matted into clumps by dried blood. What was most horrifying was that the wolf had been sliced into three distinct pieces. The head was severed from the body, and the torso had been cut in two right at the waist.

"This is how it looked when the carcass was discovered," Officer Xu explained from the side. "According to professional analysis, we can confirm one thing: to slice a wolf’s body like this, cleanly separating the limbs, the perpetrator must have used a very sharp, keen-edged weapon. And... wolf bones are incredibly dense. Even a strong adult man wielding a sharp broadsword couldn't possibly sever an adult wolf like this in a single stroke. Furthermore, forensic examination confirmed that the wolf was sliced while it was still alive; it wasn't a case of post-mortem dismemberment. The blood analysis proves this. Such power is beyond the capacity of an ordinary human, so we suspect the perpetrator might have used something like a chainsaw—sharp and possessing sufficient mechanical power."

Chen Xiao remained silent.

Officer Xu continued, "When we first received the report, we thought it might have been a fight between animals at the zoo. But after seeing the remains, it was obvious that this could not have been caused by animals biting each other. Even the most powerful beast couldn't inflict wounds like these. Moreover, there isn't a single bite mark on this wolf's body. Not one. Therefore, there is only one conclusion: it was the work of a human."

"It happened at night. There are patrols at the zoo, yet the guards didn't notice anything unusual. They only discovered the dead animals at dawn. This puzzles us greatly. You must understand, while these wolves are kept in a zoo and their wild instincts have dulled compared to those in the wild, they are still wolves! They are predators! Killing such a beast is no simple task. A wolf’s offensive capabilities are not weak, and they are fast even when fleeing. Yet, it seems the patrol guards didn't hear a single sound of a struggle."

Speaking this, Officer Xu sneered at Chen Xiao. "Do you think this could be the work of some sadistic animal abuser?"

Chen Xiao looked at the wolf's carcass and suddenly asked, "How many animals have been killed in total?"

"Quite a few," Officer Xu replied with a bitter smile. "Over two nights, four wolves were killed, along with two badgers and a brown bear."

"A brown bear?" Chen Xiao was taken aback.

"It was also sliced open with a single stroke!" Officer Xu sighed. "And only this wolf's carcass is complete. The other animals were partially missing after being cut open. We once suspected there might be an inside job, someone colluding with illegal traders... you know, there are always people who eat protected wildlife..."

"The weather is hot; these carcasses can't be kept for long. Once the investigation is finished, they will be buried and destroyed," Officer Xu said with a wry smile. "And we are the unlucky ones, wandering around the zoo all day. Honestly, I’d rather be a traffic cop riding a motorcycle than deal with this boring task."

Chen Xiao pondered this. He reached the same conclusion as Officer Xu: this did not look like the work of an ordinary person. The main point was the ability to cleave a beast into segments in a single blow, with such neat, clean cuts! Such power was absolutely impossible for an ordinary human. As for the chainsaw theory... was there really a psychopath roaming around slaughtering animals with one?

"You mentioned that parts of some animal carcasses were missing?" Chen Xiao frowned.

"Yes, that's why I suspected someone killed them to sell the meat. But the police haven't found any leads. And if that were the case, why not take the entire carcass? It feels as though the perpetrator only took the parts they needed."

Chen Xiao lowered his head in thought for a moment before looking up at Officer Xu with a deep, meaningful gaze. "Officer Xu, do you mean to ask me to..."

"Consider it a request for help. I know you aren't an ordinary person," Officer Xu smiled. "If we solve this case sooner, we won't have to keep patrolling this zoo."

Chen Xiao hesitated, but Officer Xu continued, "Chen Xiao, I've done quite a few favors for you! Don't forget that teenage girl with the mysterious background living at your place... Hmph, although the Xu family helped her get a legal identity, I am a member of the police system! I haven't caused you any trouble! And that incident with Little Red Robe the other day? I was the one who suppressed it. Of course, there was pressure from special departments, which is why that affair never went public..."

"Then why not let those special departments handle this? Like the Special Task Force?" Chen Xiao laughed.

"The Special Task Force wouldn't mobilize for something happening at a zoo," Officer Xu said with a bitter smile. "These are just a few dead animals, not important figures." He looked into Chen Xiao's eyes. "Just take it as me asking for your help, alright?"

Chen Xiao didn't answer immediately but smiled. "Today is Wednesday. Tomorrow is Thursday... Around eight o'clock tomorrow night, you can come to the coffee shop where I work. You should be able to find the address. Don't wear your uniform; come alone. Maybe there will be a chance then."

Officer Xu looked puzzled.

Chen Xiao met his gaze and smiled. "My friends and I... generally, they don't like to have anything to do with official personnel. So, if you come to see me tomorrow as 'Officer Xu,' then there’s no possibility of a discussion. But if you come simply as 'Old Xu,' the friend, then we can talk. Do you understand what I mean?"

Officer Xu laughed heartily and nodded repeatedly. "Understood... Heh, extraordinary people do extraordinary things. Fine! Don't worry. Everything you've said to me is between you and Old Xu! I won't breathe a word of it."

The two exchanged a smile and left the dissection room.

After emerging, several of Officer Xu's subordinates watched their boss walk out intimately with a teenager and couldn't help but feel curious. After all, this was a crime scene, and it was against regulations for their boss to bring such a young boy inside, let alone into the morgue. However, seeing Officer Xu’s expression brighten, as if a weight had been lifted from his chest over the past two days, and noting the respectful attitude he held toward this boy, they were filled with wonder.

After seeing Chen Xiao off to the tour bus, Officer Xu returned to his office, thought for a moment, and told his subordinates, "Hmm, please request a leave of absence for me tomorrow night. I won't be coming in to work the night shift."

***

Back at the animal exhibition area, Chen Xiao found the three girls sitting in a cold drink shop. Ya Ya did not look uncomfortable; she held a milkshake, biting on a straw. Beside her, Ye Xiaonuo was full of curiosity, staring at Ya Ya from time to time, her expression shifting between amazement, helplessness, and a touch of melancholy.

When Chen Xiao returned, Ya Ya immediately jumped up and grabbed his hand—a gesture that made both Ye Xiaonuo and Baicai stiffen.

"This is very sweet. You have some," Ya Ya offered, holding the milkshake cup to Chen Xiao. Looking at her innocent eyes, Chen Xiao could not bear to refuse and took a small sip.

"Chen Xiao," Ye Xiaonuo stood up with a playful, enigmatic smile. "I never would have guessed... I’ve always wondered. There are so many girls at the fast-food restaurant who like you, yet you never seem interested. So it turns out you have such a super cute girlfriend."

Chen Xiao thought for a moment. He initially wanted to explain that she wasn't his girlfriend, but then he decided against it—it would save him the trouble of explaining. He simply chose to remain silent, effectively defaulting to the assumption.

Baicai, who knew a bit more, vaguely understood that the relationship between Chen Xiao and Ya Ya wasn't a traditional romantic one, which made her feel slightly better. However, seeing Chen Xiao holding Ya Ya’s hand and his other arm resting naturally on her shoulder, while Ya Ya leaned into him like a little bird, she bit her lip gently. "Hey, Chen Xiao, tonight you..."

"I’m going to celebrate Old Man Xu's birthday tonight," Chen Xiao looked at Baicai. "Hmm, Little Xu mentioned he invited you too, didn't he?"

"Hmph! I didn't say I would definitely go," Baicai pouted.

In truth, Chen Xiao always felt uneasy around Baicai. He was well aware of her feelings for him. But firstly, strictly speaking, they weren't that close. Secondly, he felt nothing but simple friendship toward her. Young Master Xu’s affection for Baicai was genuine—and for a playboy like him to be so serious about a girl was no small feat.

As for Baicai’s feelings... Chen Xiao could only sigh and decline to encourage them. He wouldn't intentionally push her toward Young Master Xu, as that would be ungentlemanly, but he had to reject her affection for him. This wasn't because of Ya Ya, but because of the girl who called herself "Sajia."

In short, Chen Xiao was a simple-minded boy. He would clearly reject Baicai’s advances, but as for the business between her and Young Master Xu, he would let nature take its course.

Let it be.

So, when Baicai said she hadn't promised to attend, Chen Xiao didn't press her, just smiled. Baicai felt a sense of helplessness, secretly thinking: *Can't you just invite me? Invite me to be your partner?*

Unfortunately, Chen Xiao didn't speak, and looking at Ya Ya, who was dressed like a doll, Baicai knew clearly that Chen Xiao already had his partner for the evening.

"You... just now, Ye Xiaonuo’s father, Officer Xu. What did he want with you?" Baicai immediately changed the subject—one had to admit, she was a smart girl. A smart woman would never put a man in a difficult position.

"Oh, just chatting," Chen Xiao didn't want to elaborate, especially with outsiders present. Even though he was willing to help Officer Xu, it was better not to mention the coffee shop commission in front of Ye Xiaonuo.

Baicai exchanged a look with Chen Xiao. She knew about the coffee shop business. Seeing that he was being evasive, she felt a sudden surge of happiness: after all, these were things Chen Xiao shared with her, but not with outsiders.

With that thought, her mood improved instantly.

Chen Xiao had originally intended to take Ya Ya home, but since they had run into Ye Xiaonuo and Baicai, it would be rude to leave immediately. Besides, Ya Ya seemed happy to be with the two girls; she was usually too lonely, rarely having peers to spend time with.

The girls chatted while drinking, the atmosphere quite harmonious. Although Ya Ya was naive about the ways of the world, she wasn't as obviously out of place as when she first arrived. Under Chen Xiao's guidance, she had learned one thing: if she didn't know something, she wouldn't ask and would simply remain silent.

Thus, the four young people spent the entire afternoon in the drink shop. Ye Xiaonuo didn't notice anything abnormal about Ya Ya, and any minor slip-ups were covered up by Baicai and Chen Xiao. Despite feeling a twinge of jealousy toward Ya Ya, Ye Xiaonuo couldn't bring herself to feel any hostility toward such an innocent, guileless girl.

By evening, the four left the zoo. Chen Xiao, Ya Ya, and Baicai headed to the Xu residence for the birthday banquet. Watching Chen Xiao and Ya Ya get into a taxi, Ye Xiaonuo sighed as she watched the car disappear.

The Xu family mansion had been almost leveled during the Tyrannosaurus Rex incident, but Old Man Xu was a real estate tycoon with countless properties; he had no shortage of luxury homes. The evening banquet was arranged at another grand estate.

Although it was a private party, Old Man Xu was a titan in the industry, and the guest list inevitably included many business associates. The private event soon spiraled in scale, turning into a lavish high-society gala.

By six o'clock, the entrance to the Xu mansion was crowded with luxury cars, and guests from the upper echelons of society arrived in a steady stream. Chen Xiao and his companions arrived in an ordinary taxi, looking remarkably out of place among the sea of high-end vehicles.

Upon exiting, their attire looked equally mismatched with the surroundings. Their casual clothes stood in sharp contrast to the impeccably dressed guests. Fortunately, Chen Xiao was a regular at the Xu household, so there was no melodramatic scene of them being denied entry due to their appearance. The Xu staff recognized the young master's friend and ushered them inside.

Young Master Xu ran over quickly, his face beaming with a smile—clearly not for Chen Xiao, but focused on Baicai trailing behind.

"You finally came," Young Master Xu said happily.

Baicai shot him a glare and said lightly, "I was worried Ya Ya would be lonely, and I didn't think Chen Xiao would have time to take care of her in such a setting, so I came along! Don't get any wrong ideas!"

Young Master Xu didn't mind at all, his smile undiminished. "As long as you’re here, that’s all that matters."

The lawn outside the mansion had been set up as an open-air venue. A band hired at great expense played music, and polite waiters provided attentive service.

Young Master Xu, Chen Xiao, Ya Ya, and Baicai.

As the heir to the Xu family, Young Master Xu was the center of attention. Now, with Chen Xiao and the two girls, the group of four handsome and beautiful young people attracted many eyes. Chen Xiao was accustomed to such occasions and followed Young Master Xu to a corner to sit down.

As for Young Master Xu, he managed to charm Baicai into accompanying him to mingle among the guests, looking like a perfect pair. Chen Xiao saw through his intentions; this was exactly the effect he wanted. According to his "pick-up philosophy": women are easily influenced by their surroundings. When everyone treats the two of them as a "young couple," even if Baicai didn't intend it, the social pressure would eventually lead to subtle psychological shifts.

Chen Xiao sat to the side with Ya Ya. If he were alone, no one would bother with a teenager dressed in ordinary clothes—no matter how handsome he was. In this setting, his clothes might not even be as nice as a waiter's. But today was different, simply because he was with Ya Ya.

Ya Ya was a stunning beauty, a natural magnet for men's attention. Within five minutes of sitting down, Chen Xiao had already dismissed three groups of wealthy young men attempting to flirt with her. Ridiculously, two of them were students from Kide Academy.

Chen Xiao took on the role of a protector, indifferent to the annoyance he was causing others. Fortunately, in the Xu family's domain, no one dared to openly bully them, though a few threats were inevitable.

*Hmph! Why!*

This down-and-out boy on a bicycle! At school, he was surrounded by two beauties, Baicai and Xiao Qing, and tonight he had added yet another top-tier beauty to his side! It was simply outrageous!

Want to invite Ya Ya to dance? Sorry, she doesn't know how.
Want to invite her for a drink? Sorry, she doesn't drink.
Want to invite her for a walk? Sorry, her feet hurt.
Want to talk about life and ideals? Er... although Ya Ya was ignorant of worldly affairs, she was an incredibly fast learner! Her knowledge was far deeper than these empty-headed rich kids. Talk about life and ideals? Fine! Let's start with Hegel and then move on to Nietzsche... These rich kids could only retreat in bewilderment.

One particularly arrogant young man, twirling a Ferrari key in his hand, approached Ya Ya with a greedy look. "Beauty, as long as you give me your phone number and have dinner with me tomorrow night... see this? The Ferrari outside is yours!"

Chen Xiao couldn't even be bothered to answer, just watching with a smile.

Sure enough...

Ya Ya looked at the man with curiosity. "Ferrari? What is that? Is it a brand of ice cream?"

And so... the man suffered a spectacular defeat.

Watching the men who lusted after Ya Ya’s beauty retreat one by one, Chen Xiao chuckled as he scanned the room.

Suddenly, his eyes brightened!

At the mansion entrance, he saw Old Man Xu walking out, accompanied by Lu Bancheng; the two tycoons were chatting happily. But that wasn't what stunned Chen Xiao. What caught his attention were the four men in black suits walking beside Old Man Xu!

The four men in black were clearly guests, as Old Man Xu spoke to them with great respect. Chen Xiao recognized them! They were the four men under Phoenix, the ones rumored to be "famed figures in the supernatural world!"

*Why are they here?*

*If they are here, does that mean Phoenix came too?*

At this thought, Chen Xiao felt a surge of heat in his chest. He stood up, eagerly scanning the crowd, hoping to catch a glimpse of Phoenix.

Just then, a crisp, gentle woman's voice came from behind him: "Who are you looking for?"

Chen Xiao turned around and saw a stunningly beautiful girl standing before him.

She wore a long blue cheongsam that accentuated her graceful figure. Her slender neck added an air of elegance, and her dark hair was pinned up, with a small tail left dangling to one side, adding a touch of playfulness. She smiled at him, her exquisite and ethereal face looking breathtaking in the evening light.

"Ph—" Chen Xiao almost shouted when he saw her face, but he caught himself just in time. He gave a wry smile. "Oh, it's you, Xiao Qing. Hello."

Xiao Qing gazed at him, a trace of disappointment flickering in her eyes. Her bright pupils dimmed instantly. "You... you almost mistook me for someone else... was it the girl you mentioned, the one you like?"

She walked gently to his side, staring into his eyes. "Am I... really that similar to her? So similar that you couldn't even recognize who I was?"

Chen Xiao felt awkward. He hadn't misrecognized Xiao Qing; he had just seen Phoenix's men and assumed Phoenix might be nearby, leading to a subconscious reaction.

He couldn't explain the dissatisfaction in Xiao Qing’s eyes, so he quickly changed the subject, rubbing his nose. "Xiao Qing, you’re dressed like this tonight, I almost didn't recognize you. You look beautiful."

Xiao Qing’s eyes lit up. She looked down at herself, then frowned. "I don't really like dressing like this... but, you..."

A blush spread across her fair, delicate face. She averted her gaze shyly, her voice dropping lower. "You... didn't you say last time that I would look good if I wore a dress?"

Chen Xiao’s heart skipped a beat.

That’s right, he had said that. It was just a casual comment made after training, yet he never expected Xiao Qing to remember it. In his memory, she rarely wore dresses because they were inconvenient for practicing martial arts. He never expected that today...

Looking at her in the cheongsam, so enchanting and tender, so different from her usual heroic and vigorous self, he couldn't help but wonder... *Did she dress up like this... for me?*