https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-260-The-List-I-Have-a-Plan-Bright-Moon-Sect-You-re-Up-Part-2-/12964609/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-261-Top-Tier-Experts-Gather-at-Moon-Embrace-Sect-Entering-the-Grand-Garden-Part-2-/12964611/
Chapter 261: Top-Tier Experts Gather at Moon Embrace Sect, Entering the Grand Garden (Part 1)
Chapter 261: Top-Tier Experts Gather at Moon Embrace Sect, Entering the Grand Garden (Part 1)
Previously, due to Lu Ming's reasonable argument, the Dual Moon War had been averted, and the conspiracy of the Shi Clan was exposed. This was undoubtedly a great achievement.
It directly led to a significant boost in Lu Ming's status within the Bright Moon Sect.
Although it seemed like nothing had changed, the other elders now treated him with much more respect.
Recently, even the Second Elder rarely argued with him, and he had become more restrained.
At this moment, when Ji Haoyue mentioned Lu Ming, the elders all turned to look at him and spoke one after another, "Yes, Elder Lu, please share your thoughts. What should we do?"
"Elder Lu, you are young and wise, almost like a demon. You should be the one to give us advice and strategies!"
"Elder Lu..."
They all began to flatter him.
Lu Ming, however, hesitated, "This..."
"It's not that I'm unwilling to offer suggestions, but my identity is too sensitive, and it's not appropriate."
"After all, I have a good relationship with Long Ao Jiao, and she has been residing in the Moon Embrace Sect for a long time."
"Moreover, this matter concerns the future of both sides. I believe I should avoid any potential conflicts of interest. Otherwise, if we're not careful, it's like stuffing mud into our pants, and it will be a mess either way."
"So, I think it's better for me to remain silent."
Second Elder: "..."
He was speechless.
Damn it! I didn't say anything wrong today, did I? I didn't even have a hint of malice towards you. Why are you picking on me? Are you crazy?
Just as he was about to say something, Ji Haoyue glared at him fiercely, making the Second Elder feel both helpless and aggrieved.
It was clear that Ji Haoyue was acting in the best interest of the sect.
What are you all doing?
Ji Haoyue hummed, "Second Elder, shut your mouth!"
"Elder Lu, you don't need to worry. We trust you completely!"
"If you have any ideas, just say them out loud. We will believe that you are acting for the good of the sect. As for certain people, just assume they have donkey brains."
"I will take care of everything for you!"
Lu Ming was deeply moved, "Sect Master..."
"Elder Lu, please speak freely!"
Lu Ming was even more touched. He took a deep breath and said, "Since that's the case..."
"Then, I will offer my humble opinion!"
The elders: "Please!"
"I believe..."
Lu Ming spoke in a solemn tone, "We cannot be pushed aside!"
"Once the Moon Embrace Sect successfully cooperates with other forces, our Bright Moon Sect will go from having the advantage to being at a disadvantage!"
"Therefore, we must not let this happen!"
"We all understand this, but... the Moon Embrace Sect has already made this matter public. How can we stop it from happening? Should we start a war immediately?"
"That's not a good idea. I believe starting a war now is already too late. Those invited forces will not allow us to destroy the Moon Embrace Sect!"
Ji Haoyue frowned, "Enough!"
"Elder Lu, please continue."
"Yes."
Lu Ming nodded, "You are all correct. Therefore, I believe we should..."
"Take the initiative and go to the Moon Embrace Sect. We should strive to cooperate with them and secure this opportunity to work with the White-Black Academy!"
Everyone: "..."
They were all stunned.
They looked at Lu Ming with bewilderment in their eyes.
The Second Elder's mouth twitched uncontrollably.
Are you okay? Are you suggesting that our Bright Moon Sect should cooperate with the Moon Embrace Sect and help them make money? And you say you're not a spy?
He stood up, pointed at Lu Ming, and his body trembled, "You... you... you... you still say you're not..."
"Shut up!"
Ji Haoyue interrupted him with a stern face, "However, Elder Lu, what you said is indeed a bit... shocking. May I ask why you have such a plan?"
"It's simple."
"After eliminating all the impossible, the remaining conclusion, no matter how absurd, is the most correct and the 'truth'!"
"The current situation is clear to everyone."
Lu Ming spread his hands, "Since sitting and waiting for death is not an option, we must take some action."
"But taking action against the Moon Embrace Sect now is already too late. Therefore, taking action is not an option."
"We must do something, but we cannot take action. So, what should we do?"
Lu Ming didn't answer directly but instead used a gentle approach to encourage them to speak up, "Then, why don't you all share your thoughts on what should be done in this situation? What is the most suitable course of action that will make the Moon Embrace Sect feel troubled and, at the same time, benefit us without making us too passive?"
Everyone: "..."
Ji Haoyue suddenly realized, "If we can't be isolated and taking action is not an option, then we are left with only one path—to integrate and become one of them, becoming their 'insider'!"
"Indeed, the Sect Master is truly wise. Please continue."
Lu Ming smiled.
If I persuade them myself, they will inevitably have doubts and think that I am trying to convince them.
But if I gently guide them and let Ji Haoyue and the others 'enlighten' themselves and 'convince themselves', then... what does it have to do with me, Lu Ming?
After receiving praise, Ji Haoyue smiled slightly, and her thoughts became clearer.
"Everyone, think about it. The Moon Embrace Sect invited the Spirit Sword Sect, the Beast Control Sect, and even the Great Harmony Palace. Why didn't they invite our Bright Moon Sect?"
The Second Elder rolled his eyes, "Sect Master, you've truly lost your mind. We are sworn enemies, and Lin Fan is not senile. How could he possibly invite us?"
"..."
"Second Elder, shut your mother's mouth!"
Ji Haoyue directly cursed and then said, "Precisely because we are sworn enemies, they didn't invite us."
"But doesn't this also mean that the Moon Embrace Sect doesn't want us to be involved, doesn't want us to seize this opportunity, earn wealth, and establish a connection with the White-Black Academy?"
"As enemies..."
"What should we do?"
"Naturally, the more they don't want us to do something, the more we should do it!"
"This way, the Moon Embrace Sect will feel extremely displeased.
"But as sworn enemies, the Moon Embrace Sect will be displeased, and we, the Bright Moon Sect, will be delighted!"
"So..."
"I believe Elder Lu's words are very reasonable."
"We should go."
"Regardless of whether they invite us or not?"
Everyone realized this.
"Yes!"
"That's right!"
"Not invited? Even if they deliberately don't invite us, not wanting us to benefit, we will still go, and we will get that benefit at all costs!"
"Absolutely!"
The elders' faces lit up with excitement. "In this way, not only will the Moon Embrace Sect be unhappy, but we will also not be isolated. We won't have to worry about them joining forces with other powers to target us."
"After all, we are all working for the White-Black Academy. How dare the Moon Embrace Sect cause internal strife? If they have the audacity, the Academy will naturally deal with them!"
"Brilliant!"
"With this, won't all problems be solved?"
Everyone's gaze turned to Lu Ming, their eyes burning with anticipation.
Wow!
This guy's brain is really sharp, and he's not afraid to think big!
Such a seemingly rebellious idea, he dares to contemplate, and he understands it so thoroughly, it's truly...
"It's not that perfect, though."
But at this moment, Lu Ming shook his head, going against the flow: "This way, while most problems can be solved, there's still one major issue."
"What is it?"
"Even if we go, the Moon Embrace Sect will definitely try every means to stop us from participating."
"How to obtain this cooperation qualification is the biggest problem."
"Moreover, it's obviously difficult to resolve."
"This..."
The crowd was stunned, their smiles gradually freezing. "This is indeed a big problem."
In the end, Ji Haoyue waved his hand. "When the cart reaches the mountain, there will be a way; when the boat reaches the bridge, it will straighten itself. How can a living person be held back by urine?"
"Make more preparations, and when the time comes, we'll go to the Moon Embrace Sect together to fight for it!"
"If the Moon Embrace Sect wants to cooperate with other powers, they will definitely consider their 'strength'. With our Bright Moon Sect's strength, how many sects can compare?"
"Moreover, with the White-Black Academy watching, even Lin Fan wouldn't dare to abuse his power and obviously target us."
"..."
Lu Ming immediately praised, "Well said, Sect Master!"
"Exactly!"
...
Two days later.
Great Harmony Palace.
The Sixth Elder was treated as an honored guest, spending not a single penny to enjoy all ten of the palace's top courtesans for three whole days before leaving.
At this moment, he felt refreshed and energized.
His cultivation had even improved slightly, and he was in a great mood. He pushed open the door, his face beaming with satisfaction, and said to the attendant maid beside him, "Where is your Palace Master? Please ask him to see me."
"I'm very pleased with his arrangements, but I'm not the type to take advantage of others. I plan to give him a favor in return..."
"Thank you, Senior!"
The maid was delighted but also a bit hesitant. "It's just that... it's just..."
"The Palace Master is not here at the moment."
"Oh?"
The Sixth Elder didn't make things difficult for the maid. He concluded that a mere maid wouldn't dare deceive him, so he asked, "Is your Palace Master out on urgent business?"
"Yes."
The maid was a bit surprised.
This matter, isn't it related to the White-Black Academy? Why are you acting like you don't know anything about it?
Strange!
But she didn't show it. "It is indeed urgent."
"The Moon Embrace Sect has invited many powerful forces to discuss an important matter."
"The Moon Embrace Sect?"
The Sixth Elder raised his eyebrows, thinking of Lin Fan, that 'idiot', and couldn't help but feel a bit annoyed. "What's the Moon Embrace Sect up to?"
"It's said to be about smoothly implementing something in the Southwestern Domain."
"Huh???"
(# ̄~ ̄#) ...
What the hell?
Wasn't this matter already handed over to the Moon Embrace Sect to handle? What are they up to now?
What the hell is that little bastard Lin Fan up to?!
"What exactly happened?"
"Tell me everything in detail!"
The maid didn't dare hesitate and immediately informed him of everything she knew.
Then, the Sixth Elder was completely stunned.
"This...?!"
"This kid is too cunning!"
He had already figured it out.
Damn!
The White-Black Academy was being targeted, and to avoid trouble, they played a little trick, commonly known as 'outsourcing'. But... that bastard Moon Embrace Sect did it again?!
This is treating me like a monkey!
He wanted to explode, to go and cause trouble.
But then, he realized something was amiss.
The contract had already been signed!
Moreover, there were no clauses in the contract restricting them from continuing to 'outsource'... Even if he went to confront them, he wouldn't have a valid reason.
If there's no law against it, why can't they do it?
Is it only the officials who are allowed to start fires, while the commoners are forbidden from lighting lamps? But...
"Why bother?"
"Since the Palace Master believes the Moon Embrace Sect has this capability, why give up the advantage?"
"This..."
The Sixth Elder was perplexed, unable to understand why they would do this. Are they crazy?
"No, I have to go and see."
"Even if I can't stop it, I must at least understand how that kid plans to handle this matter. If there's a problem, even if it damages my reputation, I have to point it out on the spot. I can't let this delay the Palace's grand plan!"
The Sixth Elder didn't delay any further and immediately headed to the Moon Embrace Sect.
Subsequently, he arrived as a 'Sacred Land Messenger'.
This is the arena specially prepared by Moon Embrace Sect for this matter.
A mountain peak was flattened, serving as a vast platform for the event.
There were no pretty ladies or 'service staff', and even the decor was 'minimalist'. Elder Six only had to glance at it and felt his vision darken.
"Oh, Elder Six?"
Lin Fan was surprised, "What wind blew you here? Please, have a seat."
Elder Six: "..."
"I'm here to take a look."
Elder Six's face darkened.
You still have the face to ask? If not for this Elder lingering at Great Harmony Palace, he might still be in the dark! But Lin Fan remained calm and chuckled, "It's great, really great!"
"Elder Six, rest assured. We at Moon Embrace Sect are all very concerned about the Ethereal Realm. It's always on our minds! See? We feel that we're lacking in strength and efficiency might not keep up, so we're planning to find some helpers!"
"At that time, we'll all work together, and it'll definitely be done quickly and well."
"I assume Elder Six and White-Black Academy won't mind, right?"
How could they not mind?!
Elder Six's face darkened further, "There's no such precedent!"
"Precedents are meant to be created!"
"Elder Six, please be at ease. We've signed the contract, so how could I dare to cause trouble?"
"It's best not to dare!"
Elder Six was speechless.
But at this moment, he couldn't point out anything, so he grunted and sat down next to the main seat...
Seeing that he was still scowling, Lin Fan's eyes shifted.
"This old fellow hasn't left yet, what a miscalculation."
"If he starts spouting nonsense later, wouldn't it expose our plan?"
"No, we need to stop him from speaking."
You can't refuse a gift, and you can't refuse a favor... There should be plenty of pills in the Holy Land, so... Hmm? I've got it!
Seeing that there was still some time left, Lin Fan immediately transmitted a message to Zhu Rou Rong.
Seeing him fiddling with something, Elder Six was in a foul mood and couldn't be bothered to pay attention.
A moment later...
Zhu Rou Rong arrived, carrying a simple birdcage.
Inside the birdcage were two... chicks.
Elder Six was stunned.
What the heck?
Can't you see that I'm in a bad mood? You still send someone with two chickens? They're dirty and noisy. Are you trying to drive me away?
He frowned, about to lose his temper...
But then he saw Lin Fan taking the birdcage, saying, "Thank you for your hard work."
"Master is joking."
Zhu Rou Rong glanced at Elder Six and then bowed, "Senior, Master, I'll take my leave first."
"Okay, okay, go about your business."
Zhu Rou Rong left.
Lin Fan, holding the birdcage, walked leisurely to Elder Six's side and said, "Last time, Elder Six, you came in a hurry and left in a hurry. I didn't have time to entertain you properly."
"Today, I'm a bit busy again, and I'm afraid I might not be able to attend to you well later. Here, your junior apologizes in advance."
"As for these two little fellows, please accept them as a token of apology."
"I hope the Senior won't reject them."
Elder Six: "..."
He stared at Lin Fan, expressionless, his lips twitching uncontrollably.
Okay, okay! Are you apologizing or trying to disgust me?
You send me two chicks and say it's an apology?!
"I don't want them!"
He waved his hand dismissively, his face full of disdain, "I don't have such lowly tastes!"
Lin Fan was surprised, "Hiss!"
"The Senior is indeed a high-level practitioner in the Holy Land. Even the Ancient Eight Treasures' Eight Treasures Chicken doesn't impress you. It seems I've been too bold. Since the Senior doesn't like them, then forget it."
After saying this, he was about to open the birdcage to release the chickens.
Upon hearing this, Elder Six, who had been disdainful and indifferent, was suddenly shocked, "Wait, what did you say?!"
"Hold on!"
He stopped Lin Fan and snatched the birdcage.
"What is this?"
"Eight Treasures... Chicken?!"
"Yes."
Lin Fan smiled inwardly, but his face showed confusion, "Doesn't the Senior recognize them?"
"..."
"Hmm..."
Elder Six carefully examined them and indeed found some characteristics of the Eight Treasures Chicken, but they were too subtle!
No wonder he hadn't recognized them earlier.
After all, there was a significant difference between newly hatched chicks and fully grown chickens.
But how could I, an old fellow, admit that I didn't recognize them?
"Of course, I recognized them."
"It's just that I didn't look closely earlier."
"So that's it." Lin Fan realized, "It seems the Senior wants to release them personally? That's good too. Then, please go ahead."
Release? Release my foot!
How could I release such precious creatures?
When I was young, I once had the opportunity to taste a leg of an Eight Treasures Chicken with the Manor Lord, and the flavor... Even now, I still can't forget it...
Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
Now you give me two, and you want me to release them? What a joke!
"Oh, by the way."
Elder Six was sharp-witted and quickly put them into the Beast Taming Ring before saying, "The heavens have the virtue of giving life."
"My hobbies have always been elegant."
"I often do things like releasing animals."
"The Eight Treasures Chicken is a rare treasure of heaven and earth. They should be free to roam the skies and seas, so after I leave, I'll release them in those famous mountains and rivers."
"After all, they're still young and have almost no ability to protect themselves."
"Releasing them in the wild, in places where no one goes, will be safer.
(End of Chapter)
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