Living In Another World With A Farm Chapter 8569 8569: Method (1)
Previously on Living In Another World With A Farm...
Upon hearing the proposal from Zhao Hai, Laura nodded in agreement and remarked, "This strategy is quite viable. Even though the Giant Demon Sect has remained a steadfast ally to the Blood Kill Sect, the fact that they survived while the others were wiped out proves they possess the necessary strength to counter the Corpse Demon Sect. Furthermore, the members of the Giant Demon Sect aren't as pathologically bloodthirsty as those in the Blood Kill Sect. They actually enjoy a decent reputation across the Blood Sea Realm. No one considers them impossible to deal with; while their tempers can be volatile and they have a penchant for arrogance, they are ultimately governed by reason. Since they are primarily body cultivators, their raw power is formidable enough that nobody dares to slight them. Using Brother Zhao Wuji as our public front is a very sensible choice."
The rest of the group nodded, finding the proposal sound. As long as Zhao Wuji was on board, they possessed the capabilities to manifest this intelligence network almost immediately, leaving them with no significant concerns. Moreover, operating under the reputation of Zhao Wuji would ensure that this new network remained considerably more secure than their previous iteration.
"I agree that this is a solid plan, yet we shouldn't limit ourselves to a single path. We must broaden our preparations, which is why we should utilize Yu Qing. His position is even more distinguished than Big Brother Zhao Wuji’s, as he is an expert at the Island Lord level. Utilizing his resources to construct an intelligence network should be even easier," Zhao Hai stated in a somber, serious tone.
Laura and the others concurred, acknowledging the logic in his words. Since Yu Qing was already under their influence, using his status to establish such a network was entirely feasible. In fact, this second network might prove even more secure than the one linked to Zhao Wuji. After all, being an Island Lord signifies a massive disparity compared to a typical true disciple. While the rank of true disciples is vast, those who reach the level of Island Lord number only ten thousand; it is nearly impossible for the average disciple, even those destined for elder positions, to bridge that gap. The distinction between those levels is as vast as the divide between heaven and earth.
With a faint smile, Zhao Hai continued, "Of course, this is merely phase two. The third phase involves selecting individuals to infiltrate various sects as initiates. Alternatively, we could identify current disciples from those sects and subjugate them entirely, using them as the foundation for our intelligence web. What are your thoughts?"
The group went quiet, brows furrowing in concern. The lady boss spoke up, "Young Master, I believe we must tread carefully here. While the major sects may appear to accept disciples casually, their vetting processes are notoriously strict. They rarely take in individuals with obscure backgrounds, making it difficult to embed our people. Controlling established disciples is even more perilous; even those in smaller sects are not easily bought."
Zhao Hai responded firmly, "I am speaking of absolute control, not bribery. Within those major sects, there are undoubtedly those who feel frustrated or overlooked. We can identify these dissatisfied individuals and bring them firmly under our influence. With our backing, their cultivation will thrive, and as they ascend to become true disciples, we can channel their influence for our needs. As for the minor sects? That is even more straightforward. We do not need to bother with their rank-and-file; we simply need to seize control of their Sect Masters and the Island Lord-level experts within those ranks."
Pausing for a moment, he surveyed the room, his voice dropping to a deeper intensity. "Our previous approach was shrouded in a misunderstanding—we were too cautious and hesitant. At other times, we were needlessly destructive, as we were with those minor sects. We used to focus on simple trade or the total annihilation of those who opposed us to loot their resources. That was unnecessary. If we had employed more surgical methods, we could have secured them entirely. If we control every member of these smaller sects, every resource they possess effectively becomes our own, and it is far safer than raids."
As the implication of his words settled in, the group realized the tactical shift. Zhao Hai’s logic was simple: they had previously sought only shallow connections or transactional relationships. Now, with the strength they possessed, they could target the leadership of minor sects directly. By puppeteering the upper echelons, the entirety of those sects would fall under their sphere of influence.
A sense of excitement rippled through them. They saw a viable roadmap for rapid expansion; if this, too, succeeded, their power would grow like a snowball rolling down a hill, gaining momentum with every passing day.
Observing their reactions, Zhao Hai offered a measured smile. "Don't get ahead of yourselves. Do you truly believe these smaller sects lack influence? Some possess hidden ties, perhaps even backing from the larger sects. We must proceed with patience. First, we secure the arrangements with Big Brother Zhao Wuji and Yu Qing. I will handle the discussion with Zhao Wuji. Lady boss, if he consents, the oversight of the intelligence network falls to you. To ensure continued loyalty, we shall allocate fifty percent of the profit from our shops to him. Business requires mutual benefit; we cannot ask for someone's service without providing something in return."
The lady boss nodded, acknowledging the wisdom in his instruction. She recognized that while their wealth was substantial, information was the true currency they lacked. Funding the network through a profit-sharing arrangement was a necessary cost that none would contest.
"As for Yu Qing," Zhao Hai continued, "once the matters with Big Brother are settled, I will approach him myself. Since the intelligence network under him will be complex—and because he is unaware of the restriction I've placed upon him—I’ll need you, Laura, to manage that front. While he may suspect his status, we must remain vigilant regarding his potential actions."
Laura dipped her head. "Rest assured, Big Brother Hai. Leave him to me. I have handled such matters before; if Yu Qing chooses to act out, his life will effectively be forfeit, given the curse you’ve bound to his physical form."
Zhao Hai looked over the group one final time, his composure absolute. "Very well, continue with your duties. I will depart for the Death Warriors Island. It is impossible to discuss such matters via letter, so I must speak with Zhao Wuji in person. Even if he is currently restricted to the island, we must begin our groundwork now." With that, the group dispersed, and the lady boss hurried off to organize the preparations.
Once alone, Zhao Hai finished his final arrangements and set out toward the Death Warriors Island. Upon reaching the outskirts, he sent a secret message requesting an immediate audience. Zhao Wuji had been in better spirits lately; the knowledge that Zhao Hai survived had alleviated his depression, leading to a more consistent, diligent cultivation routine that had significantly stabilized his temperament.
When the notification arrived, Zhao Wuji was mid-drink. Recognizing the urgency of the message, he promptly set aside his flagon and departed his chambers. After checking the perimeter of the island to ensure he was unobserved, he slipped into the shadows to reach the Blood Sea.
Upon crossing, he was greeted by Zhao Hai. Zhao Hai cupped his hands in a traditional greeting, "Big Brother Zhao, thank you for coming. Why not join me for a drink?" Having previously been shown the secrets of the space, Zhao Wuji was already aware of the pocket dimension, and Zhao Hai felt no need to conceal it further.
He accepted the invitation with a booming laugh. "Very well, let us proceed." With a flash of white light, they vanished, reappearing in a chamber where Laura and her companions had already arranged a fresh spread of food and wine.
Zhao Wuji looked at the women with visible surprise. Zhao Hai gestured toward them, explaining, "These are my wives. Laura, you may excuse us; I have matters to discuss with Brother Zhao." As the women departed, they offered a bow to Zhao Wuji, which he hurriedly returned.
Once they were settled, Zhao Wuji stared at Zhao Hai critically. "Little Hai, it seems your luck with women is as great as your ambition. But remember, you are a cultivator with the heavy duty of restoring the Blood Kill Sect. Do not allow yourself to be distracted by vanity, understood?"
Zhao Hai chuckled. "I assure you, Big Brother, my path remains clear. I have summoned you today because I require your counsel and your name for a specific endeavor. First, let us share this drink. We shall discuss the details once we have finished." Picking up his cup, he signaled for a toast. Zhao Wuji, setting aside his lecture, accepted the cup and took a slow draw before meeting Zhao Hai’s gaze once more.
Zhao Hai smiled faintly. "You are aware of the recent coordinated operations by the major sects against us. While we held our ground, our intelligence network was dismantled. As such, I would like to operate a new network under your name and patronage. What is your stance?"