Compared to Jiang'an Hall, Lin Yu could foresee that the Free Alliance's assessment would undoubtedly be much more stringent. Not only because the Free Alliance didn't have the same resources as the forum to fall back on, but also... This organization might be the most unique among all player groups.

Tycoon had previously mentioned that the Free Alliance had very few members—currently only nine confirmed individuals. Moreover, the organization was quite loose, seemingly without many rules—it even included members who appeared to be sworn enemies. This was completely different from more formal and conventional organizations like Jiang'an Hall.

After joining Jiang'an Hall, the pinned document in their app outlined some basic rules: members couldn't attack each other, had to assist one another in instances, and had to contribute at least once a month to the organization. In return, the benefits were substantial—free strategies, discounted items, and even the ability to request help from the organization's top players. These were standard rules most organizations followed.

Based on Lin Yu's observations and further verification through Jiang'an Hall's internal documents, he was certain of one thing: the Free Alliance had none of these rules. They seemed more like a gathering of exceptionally strong, highly talented, and eccentric individuals who came together for "fun."

Thus, the method of joining the Free Alliance... was practically a blank slate.

But now, looking at the text message on his phone, Lin Yu was getting a glimpse of the organization's truly insane side.

"Complete two out of three tasks to pass, huh?"

"First: Kill any player with a bounty exceeding 3,000 points on the forum or over 500,000 RMB on the Hunters' Association."

"Second: Join the Order, the Marauders, or the Psychological Society, then publicly announce your withdrawal to join the Free Alliance."

"Third: Team up with at least two Free Alliance members in a game and earn their approval."

The third task was manageable, but the other two were downright insane.

The first task's difficulty spoke for itself. A bounty over 3,000 points on the forum likely meant a player who had undergone Promotion. Such players were pillars of any organization—even in Jiang'an Hall, only about 40% of members had completed Promotion. Out of nearly a hundred members, fewer than forty had achieved it. Some veterans who had been in the Death Game for almost a year and attempted Promotion four or five times still fell short.

Though Lin Yu had completed his Promotion by his third instance, he knew full well... his case was exceptional! Players who had undergone Promotion were not to be trifled with.

The second task was equally insane. Just joining the Order, the Marauders, or the Psychological Society was difficult enough. Announcing your withdrawal afterward would mean making a powerful enemy for no reason! Though Lin Yu already had complicated ties with the latter two... he couldn't help but sigh.

"What a bunch of lunatics."

Was everyone in the Free Alliance wanted by these three organizations? Though he had only interacted with Li Nian... Lin Yu was starting to seriously suspect... the rest of the Free Alliance members were just as crazy!

"Looks like this test will take some time—best to finish it this week." Lin Yu pondered before turning off his phone. There was something more important to do now.

Heading to the bus station.

Lin Yu altered his appearance, though this time, he only made slight adjustments to his facial features rather than completely transforming into someone else. His build and posture remained largely unchanged, but these subtle tweaks made him look like a completely different person—more ordinary and slightly colder in demeanor.

After arranging excuses for both his school and his sister, Lin Yu arrived at the bus station. He didn't plan to buy a ticket directly. Both buses and trains required ID for purchase—something Lin Yu absolutely didn't want to leave traces of. So, before arriving at Jiangcheng's main bus station with his backpack, he naturally considered "unofficial" transportation methods.

He knew Jiangcheng's bus station all too well. After standing around for a bit with his backpack, a private driver approached him with a grin.

"Hey buddy, where to? I can leave right now!"

This was exactly what Lin Yu was waiting for. "Private ride, out of province. You up for it?"

The driver blinked. "Where to?"

"Zheng City, Henan Province. Drop me off at a bus station there."

The driver's eyes widened. He had expected a short trip to the airport or a nearby city, not a cross-province job. Tentatively, he quoted a price: "Zheng City's pretty far... how about 2,800?"

"Can you do 2,500?"

"Sure, sure!" The middle-aged driver nodded eagerly. "Leaving now?"

"Now. What kind of car do you have? Fast?"

The driver puffed out his chest proudly. "Don't worry, boss! Got a brand-new car last year, runs like a dream! Used to be a test driver for rally teams." He patted his chest. "I'll get you to Zheng City overnight—guaranteed in time for morning spicy soup!"

Lin Yu gave a slight nod. Jiangcheng's central location meant no city was too far, and with an experienced driver, the timing was feasible.

"Alright, let's go." He said decisively.

Though 2,500 wasn't a small sum, for Lin Yu... this was a necessary expense. Besides, this trip to Zheng City might just pay for itself. He never hesitated—this had always been his nature since childhood, acting with decisive swiftness.

However, hearing Lin Yu's agreement, the driver suddenly grew hesitant. "Uh, kid, mind if I call home first? This trip'll take a whole day round trip—don't want the wife and kids worrying!"