Rebuilding the Immortal Cultivator Clan Chapter 2118 1529: Spreading
Previously on Rebuilding the Immortal Cultivator Clan...
The individual returned to the heart of the swamp, revealing that the group of cultivators had been deceived. Then, a question was posed: "Everyone, which faction do you suspect is orchestrating this manipulation?"
"Is it the Baiyun Sect? Or the Purple Extreme Sect? Perhaps the Infinite Gate?"
Initially, others had assumed this was a typical unauthorized venture into the Gloomy Swamp by a group of cultivators. However, it now appeared their assumptions were far too simplistic.
"Daoist Brother Tu, did you manage to interrogate them?"
Tu Sen shook his head, responding, "They were completely unaware of being manipulated. No matter how we questioned them, we couldn't extract any answers. We simply made them swear an oath to maintain secrecy and then released them."
Although the dozen or so cultivators did not hail from prominent backgrounds, they might still possess relatives or friends. If too many were to perish simultaneously, it would inevitably draw unwanted attention.
No one found this method of resolution problematic; moreover, they had more pressing matters to attend to. After ensuring no leaks would occur, the incident was set aside.
Their anxieties stemmed from their own assumptions, making it impossible for them to arrive at any viable conclusions.
Following extensive discussion, no new insights were gained, leaving them with no alternative but to shelve the issue and await another misstep from their adversaries.
"The Secret Realm is on the verge of opening. During this period, we must intensify our patrols to prevent any opportunistic lesser cultivators from exploiting potential loopholes!"
"What Zhang said is most accurate!" The others concorded in agreement.
The reason this contingent of Earth Immortals was stationed in this desolate region was due to the presence of a vast Secret Realm of the Earth Immortal rank here.
Nevertheless, with its connection to the cultivation resources for the ensuing century, no degree of negligence could be tolerated!
...
Li Zhirui, concealed within the cave, was naturally oblivious to the even grander secrets lurking beneath the surface, though certain suspicions had taken root in his mind.
"Fortunately, I maintained my caution that day, coupled with a bit of luck. Otherwise, venturing into the Gloomy Swamp would have been walking into a deliberate trap rather than seeking refuge," he couldn't help but inwardly lament.
Had he encountered an Earth Immortal back then and become entangled, the cultivators on guard would have swarmed out. Even if they managed to escape, it wouldn't have been as seamless as the present situation—they might have found themselves on the run, constantly evading pursuit.
The guarding cultivators ought to be focusing more intensely on the periphery, deterring external intrusions, rather than maintaining a strict surveillance within the swamp's confines. This explains why the two of them had remained undetected, and why no trace of their presence had been discovered.
However, with Li Zhirui having uncovered this information first, it was impossible for the opposing side to be aware of the two intruders from the Outer Realm currently hidden within the swamp!
Furthermore, he had also ascertained that a significant secret was concealed here, making it imperative to stir up trouble and obscure the situation to facilitate their own endeavors!
In mere moments, Li Zhirui's mind became awash with a multitude of intricate schemes.
As for the extent of the benefits they might reap from these machinations, that would ultimately depend on their individual capabilities.
As dusk settled, after a full day of activity, Fu Chengguang returned to the cave, a smile gracing his features, his demeanor indicating a successful expedition.
"Fellow Daoist, I have significant matters that require our discussion."
Li Zhirui stepped forward and declared directly, "This location is fraught with peril, yet it also presents a considerable opportunity!"
"Did Fellow Daoist uncover something new?"
He nodded, proceeding to meticulously recount all his discoveries and the actions he had undertaken throughout the day to his companion.
"The entirety of the swamp is enveloped by a formation?!"
Fu Chengguang's expression grew grave. He possessed some comprehension of formations, and while he might not be able to dismantle such intricate array patterns swiftly, he recognized that a formation of this magnitude would undoubtedly be of superior quality!
"And Earth Immortal cultivators are stationed here?"
Fortunately, he had consistently exercised prudence during each excursion, never indulging in recklessness due to the perceived absence of cultivators within the Gloomy Swamp. Consequently, he had avoided exposing their tracks.
"What plan does Fellow Daoist have in mind?" However, Fu Chengguang soon regained his composure, understanding that Li Zhirui had broached the subject for a specific reason, likely harboring a pre-existing strategy.
"My intention is to disseminate word of a Secret Realm or a hidden relic within the Gloomy Swamp, leveraging the cultivators of This Realm whom I can subtly influence."
Previously, to ensure their safety, he had refrained from influencing all the cultivators of This Realm, deliberately leaving a select few available to facilitate future maneuvers.
He had never anticipated that these preparations would be required so soon.
Regarding the dozen cultivators who had previously entered the swamp, they had already taken a Dao Oath. To compel them to spread misinformation would be detrimental to their own well-being.
"Is Fellow Daoist contemplating fishing in troubled waters?" Fu Chengguang immediately grasped the underlying intention behind Li Zhirui's proposal.
"Precisely. This is the only method by which we can extract substantial profit."Li Zhirui acknowledged this, stating, "Furthermore, be it a Secret Realm or a relic, they can offer considerable rewards in a brief timeframe!" He found himself in complete agreement and was quite enticed by the prospect. However, a significant obstacle persisted: how would they manage to blend in seamlessly? "Our foremost objective, therefore, is to assimilate into the Ten Thousand Rivers Realm and expunge our unique Outer Realm aura!" Li Zhirui possessed an answer for this very predicament. Fu Chengguang's gaze darted with astonishment. While he held no low opinion of the recently acquainted fellow Daoist, even the Taiyi Golden Immortal ancestor from his own esteemed family had no effective remedy, aside from perhaps hastening the process of wearing it down. Yet, the fellow Daoist's assured composure hinted at a swift resolution, igniting an intense eagerness to observe his approach. "Fellow Daoist, tend to these lotus seeds with care. Upon their maturation, they shall receive the blessings and merit bestowed by this Heavenly Dao. This merit can aid us in eradicating the Outer Realm aura, thereby preventing any rejection from the Heavenly Dao."