Zhang Shouquan's Plan and Purpose

Zhang Shouquan was extremely frustrated and reluctantly took his seat.

He felt he had made a mistake, but he didn't have a good way to change the situation in the short term.

Fortunately, the people around quickly exchanged pleasantries, which soon made the atmosphere more harmonious.

In any case, Zhang Shouquan's willingness to participate in the decisive battle against the Sea Race is good news for the Human Race.

The more True Lord- level combat power you have, the better.

Moreover, although this Daoist Zhang is Newly Promoted True Monarch, he has displayed quite remarkable skills in array formations in front of everyone.

With this skill, everyone naturally treated him very kindly.

No one objected to his infiltration, nor did anyone mind the little joke he had just made.

Instead, they all went along with Xiao Chen's words and started jokingly referring to each other as senior and junior brothers.

This only made Zhang Shouquan even more frustrated.

He just wanted to show off his young age; he didn't really want to be everyone's junior brother, so he was inexplicably half a head shorter.

If this gets out and unsuspecting people hear about it, they might think he's the weakest one.

However, everyone present was very sensible.

The topic was quickly and spontaneously dropped.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, the conversation gradually returned to the main topic.

We will now continue to discuss the next course of action.

Of course, not everyone is concerned with important matters.

For example, Xiao Chen was still warmly greeting Zhang Shouquan in a low voice. "Daoist Zhang, don't be so reserved. You're sitting so upright, like you're in school."

"Make yourself at home here, eat and drink as you please."

"This pot contains Chong Zhen Yang Xin Tea, brought out by Crane Daoist Friend. It tastes refreshing and mellow, like the sound of pine breeze rinsing your teeth. Let me pour you a cup to try."

Snort!

Zhang Shouquan sneered inwardly. They're pretending to be good people here now, but just now they were laughing the loudest!

He was being somewhat unfair to Xiao Chen; their seats were close together, so it was understandable that their laughter would be heard a bit louder.

However, putting this matter aside, his overall view of Xiao Chen is actually quite complex.

At first, Zhang Shouquan was filled with Qi Ingestion on the Eight Directions Arena.

He's just Hidden Dao Heritage Successor, he only has a better background than him, which is why he's ahead.

Given time, with the inheritance he obtained from the Secret Realm, he will surely be able to surpass his opponent.

Moreover, I heard that Xiao Chen spent money lavishly at the auction.

As a rogue cultivator Zhang Shouquan had a natural aversion to such things.

However, the chance encounter within the New Ruin, coupled with the suppression of the Sea Race and the execution of traitors, led to this event.

This made him feel much more favorably toward Xiao Chen, believing him to be a good person with decent character.

However, after the previous incident where the two smuggled themselves into the blocked Universal Salvation Temple and divided up the sacred objects.

Zhang Shouquan couldn't help but feel somewhat depressed.

He originally had the chance to keep all those things for himself, but he ran into Xiao Chen and ended up having half of them taken away.

So when they said goodbye, he sincerely hoped that they would part ways and never see each other again.

As it turns out, my initial assessment was absolutely correct.

This time, the two of them met, which indeed caused his carefully prepared plan to be abandoned halfway.

Looking at Xiao Chen, Zhang Shouquan felt a sense of unease, as if nothing good ever came of meeting him.

He couldn't help but wonder if the two of them were incompatible according to their birth charts.

If that's the case, you'll need to consciously keep your distance from the other person.

However, what one thinks in one's mind is one thing, but the actual actions one takes cannot be so simple and crude.

Zhang Shouquan politely raised his cup to express his gratitude. "Since Daoist Xiao has said so, I must have a good taste of this tea to see just how good it is."

His thinking was quite simple.

Since everyone is currently united in fighting against the Sea Race, we might as well feign compliance for now and part ways later when the opportunity arises.

However, thinking of this...

Zhang Shouquan looked up at the crowd arguing in front of him, and a thought suddenly struck him.

Instead, he smiled and asked casually, "What you all say about the upcoming action plan against the Sea Race makes a lot of sense."

"As a newcomer, I was also completely confused."

"But I wonder what Daoist Xiao thinks of this?"

I would greatly appreciate your guidance.

Regarding this issue, Xiao Chen maintained his previous stance. "I've never really cared about this. As long as everyone thinks it's okay, then I'm fine with it too."

"And I also believe that the plan we come up with through collective wisdom should be sound."

This kind of thing can be left for Gang Yuan True Monarch and the others to ponder.

Now that someone else has taken care of the work, Xiao Chen only needs to rest for a few days, then share everyone's wisdom and clarify the finalized plan.

Since everyone's goal is to eliminate the Sea Race, why make ourselves work so hard and worry so much?

"Oh, that's what happened."

Zhang Shouquan nodded and complimented, "Fellow Daoist Xiao is truly dashing and unrestrained, a sight to behold."

But in reality, he had a plan in mind.

Since everyone is still arguing, could he propose a compromise?

While resolving disputes, achieve your own goals.

Zhang Shouquan's initiative to participate in the fight against the Sea Race naturally stemmed from his own motives.

Moreover, unlike Xiao Chen, who wanted to hunt Great Demon to obtain spiritual materials, he didn't really care about the outcome of the battle, or even the final result.

Instead, they paid more attention to the Fifth-Order Defensive Formation located at Universal Salvation Temple.

You should know that, looking across the entire Compassion Sea, only there is Fifth-Order Grand Array.

While they may not be entirely absent elsewhere, they are often hidden within various ruins or Secret Realm.

Not only are the intervals between activations long and the duration short, but the Array Foundation and Formation Flag are also concealed by various Power of Restriction and buildings.

Determining the location is extremely difficult, let alone using it for study and research.

Nowadays, only at Universal Salvation Temple is there a chance to get up close to Fifth-Order Grand Array.

Moreover, it is a fully activated, Fifth-Order Grand Array operating at full capacity.

For a Array Master eager to improve their skills, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Normally, if a kind-hearted person were willing to activate Fifth-Order Grand Array, they would be burning out Mid-Grade Spirit Stone.

There simply weren't that many enemies charging into the formation, which could provide a realistic and effective stress test scenario.

In short, it's a golden opportunity!

This is the main reason why Zhang Shouquan, a rogue cultivator, was willing to stand up and fight against the Sea Race.

Therefore, from his perspective, he would definitely support the suggestion of Gang Yuan True Monarch.

The sooner we get to Universal Salvation Temple, the sooner we can access the Fifth-Order Grand Array.

Furthermore, it's important to know that Zhang Shouquan is a relatively rare Array Master.

As reinforcements, he can directly participate in the operation of the great formation, whether he is responsible for repairing the Array Foundation or repairing the Formation Pattern.

Not only can you see them, but you can also touch some of the actual objects.

Not only that, if he encounters something he can't figure out along the way, he can use the excuse of repairing the formation to ask the Zen Master in charge of studying formations at Universal Salvation Temple for advice.

Gain a deeper understanding of the layout and operational principles of the Fifth-Order Grand Array.

Moreover, at this point, it's highly unlikely that Universal Salvation Temple would keep its secrets out of fear that he might steal them.

Instead, they will teach him diligently and help him quickly familiarize himself with the formation to improve maintenance efficiency.

It's practically like getting half a teacher for free, and afterwards the other person even has to thank him.

You won't find another thing as good as this anywhere else in the world!

However, even the best things have corresponding risks.

In most cases, the greater the benefit, the greater the corresponding risk.

Even if it's not obvious on the surface, it only means that danger is lurking in the shadows.

Therefore, Zhang Shouquan supported Gang Yuan True Monarch's suggestion.

However, he made a modification to the other party's proposal. "Fellow Daoists, I also have a suggestion regarding our next move, which I would like to discuss with you all."

"What do you all think about us splitting into two groups and acting separately?"

When the topic of separate actions came up, Zhang Shouquan subconsciously glanced at Xiao Chen beside him out of the corner of his eye.

The brilliance of his plan lies in the fact that it allows him to get rid of this guy in a way that is both reasonable and logical.

"Splitting the troops? I'm afraid that's not a good idea."

Upon hearing this, Iron Fan True Monarch immediately shook his head. "Daoist Zhang, even now, the Sea Race still retains a considerable strength."

"If we stand together, we can rely on each other."

"However, if we split up, we may be defeated by being scattered."

Gang Yuan True Monarch also disagreed with dividing the troops. "That's right, I also think it's inappropriate to act separately."

"Objectively speaking, although Daoist Xiao deserves great credit, the Sea Race's strategy of launching separate invasions was also a major reason for their defeats on multiple fronts."

"We must learn from this and avoid making the same mistake."

You know what, the Sea Race really did give us a chance.

If they were all huddled together, even with Xiao Chen's Mechanical Grappling Claw, he would likely find it difficult to succeed.

This thing is very powerful in one-on-one combat, and in fair battles it can also quickly reduce the enemy's numbers.

However, it's difficult to be effective when your side is outnumbered, since it can only be used once per battle.

If the problem persists after using it, then there's no further recourse.

"What you two fellow Daoists say makes sense, but I have also considered this point."

Despite his suggestions being refuted by both sides, Zhang Shouquan remained calm and composed, appearing confident and assured.

He even calmly took a sip of tea first.

He then explained, "What I meant by splitting the troops into two groups was not an even division, but rather one large and one small."

"Send a small number of people to Universal Salvation Temple first to help relieve some of the defensive pressure."

"Before I came, I heard that the attack they had suffered since the start of the war was the most severe, and the situation was the most perilous."

"They've persisted for so long; they must be exhausted and worn out by now, they're just forcing themselves to keep going."

"Let's send a few people as an emergency measure, no matter how many; it should be a timely help."

"Meanwhile, the main force, following Daoist Iron Fan's strategy, maintained a certain distance from the main force of the Sea Race on the periphery to observe the situation."

Zhang Shouquan held up two fingers. "There are two advantages to doing this."

"Firstly, even if the Sea Race launch a surprise attack, the side with the larger numbers can hold out with the help of the spirit ships and have sufficient strength to resist."

"Secondly, if any unforeseen circumstances arise, we can respond promptly and strike decisively."

"Wouldn't that be a perfect solution for both of us?"

"What do you fellow Daoists think?"

To say that Zhang Shouquan's plan was particularly good would be an understatement; it was merely a compromise.

However, he was quite popular with the surrounding True Lord.

Firstly, everyone had discussed it for a long time before he arrived, and each person had different ideas that made it difficult to reach a consensus.

Secondly, human nature always favors compromise; those who understand this know it and need no further explanation.

Therefore, after discussing it for a long time, no good solution could be found.

Zhang Shouquan's compromise proposal appealed to many people.

"Hmm, Daoist Zhang's considerations are quite prudent."

Iron Fan True Monarch spoke first, praising the man, before changing the subject. "However, this introduces a new problem."

"So, which of our fellow Daoists should we send ahead to Universal Salvation Temple?"

"I think it's not just me; many fellow cultivators are also worried about the hidden schemes and plots of the Sea Race."

"If this plan is followed, wouldn't the few fellow Daoists heading to Universal Salvation Temple be even more likely to encounter danger?"

His concern is indeed very valid.

However, this played right into Zhang Shouquan's hands. "It's not difficult at this point!"

"Since it was I who proposed this plan, I naturally have the honor of being among the first reinforcements to go to Universal Salvation Temple."

He's willing to go, absolutely willing!

"Daoist Zhang, there's no need for that. I didn't mean it that way."

Iron Fan True Monarch explained, "The reason I spoke up was simply to share my opinions and fill in any gaps."

Zhang Shouquan quickly replied, "No, no, no, Fellow Daoist Iron Fan has misunderstood. I didn't mean to force myself."

"If I were afraid of the threat posed by the Sea Race, why would I have come here willingly?"

"Therefore, I went willingly from the bottom of my heart, and even more so, I couldn't have asked for it."

"Besides, I heard before I came that the Sea Race were charging into battle almost day and night."

"There must be quite a few damaged Array Foundation accumulated within Universal Salvation Temple as well."

"I happen to know a bit about array formations, so maybe I can play a small but important role in maintaining the grand array over there."

After Zhang Shouquan said this, the others also felt that he was indeed a more suitable candidate.

Even Gang Yuan True Monarch nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Fellow Daoist Zhang has thought this through very carefully."

"During the years of war, the large formation over there has indeed been under immense pressure, and we should help alleviate that burden."

"In that case, I'll go along and see if I can get involved in the repairs."

Han Chuan True Monarch followed suit, saying, "Then count me in too, let's go together as a trio."

"That should bring the number of people to about right."

Since a small group is going first, three people are enough; otherwise, it would really be split up.

"Hmm, that's not a good idea!"

Upon hearing Gang Yuan True Monarch frowned slightly. "Junior Brother, you shouldn't go. It's better to stay here for now."

"Once the Sea Race discover that Shallow Sky Sea has fallen, they will likely set up a large formation around it."

"If all the people on our side who are skilled in formations go to Universal Salvation Temple, wouldn't that leave an opening outside?"

Not only that, but Gang Yuan True Monarch also seemed to be diversifying his investments.

"Fellow Daoist Gang Yuan is right, we also need to leave a Array Master outside."

Seeing this, Xiao Chen immediately volunteered. "How about this, Daoist Han Chuan stays, and I'll go to Universal Salvation Temple instead."

"To be honest, I've long wanted to see for myself this place, which is rumored to be the most prosperous in the Compassion Sea."

"Besides, I do have an acquaintance there."

"Last time at the New Ruin, Fa Zhao Arhat invited me to visit there."

"Speaking of which, he's now Zen Master Fa Zhao, so I might as well go and pay him a visit again."

It's just that it's still early.

If another one or two hundred years pass, and the disciples who were in the New Ruin grow up and officially step onto the grand stage of the Compassion Sea.

Xiao Chen was the one who truly had acquaintances wherever he went, and could speak with people from both the Buddhist Dao and Daoist communities.

However, judging from the current situation, it may not be necessary to go through that much trouble.

After this Sea Race Invasion ends, based solely on his already distinguished military achievements, he could be treated as an honored guest by any power in the Compassion Sea.

It's no exaggeration to say that among the cultivators who remain in the Compassion Sea and haven't left yet...

It would be difficult to find someone who hadn't heard of Xiao Chen's battle report.

After all, that was the reason given by the various factions when they distributed Contribution Points to their disciples during their previous Great Powers celebrations.

"That's excellent!"

Iron Fan True Monarch also spoke up in support, "Daoist Han Chuan's mastery of formations is truly remarkable; it would indeed be safer for him to stay outside and provide support."

Everyone was trying to persuade him, and they were giving very good reasons.

Having no choice but to abandon his idea of fighting side by side, Han Chuan True Monarch nodded in agreement. "In that case, I'll stay."

"But senior brother, be careful when you fight alone. Don't rush too far forward on a whim."

"We're naturally at a disadvantage when it comes to strength compared to Great Demon."

Gang Yuan True Monarch chuckled, "Junior brother, don't worry. But leaving you out here alone will require some extra care."

"It's a bit troublesome normally, but we still need to send out several Inspector boats to clear the way, to guard against ambush formations set up by the Sea Race."

The two fellow disciples expressed their concern for each other.

Zhang Shouquan, on the other hand, stared wide-eyed. Wait a minute, how did it turn out like this?

Why was someone else chosen?

Don't do that!

He wasn't against the idea of keeping the Han Chuan True Monarch.

The key issue is that this means his plan to distance himself from Xiao Chen will be ruined before it even begins.

No, there's something really wrong with this!

They were clearly planning to split up, and there were only three of them on their side; how could they possibly be grouped together?

Zhang Shouquan almost wanted to shout, "If that's the case, then let me stay!"

But he had seemed so actively involved before, and now he just couldn't bring himself to say those words.

Sigh, another miscalculation!

If I had known it would turn out this way, I shouldn't have made my statement beforehand.

He should wait for Xiao Chen to make his stance clear first, and then he can go to the opposite side.

But now it's naturally too late to say anything.

"Oh dear, Daoist Zhang, we'll be setting off together shortly."

Xiao Chen picked up his teacup. "Come, come, let's have a drink, tea in place of wine."

He lowered his voice and said, "When we parted last time, I said we'd meet again."

"I knew it!"

"Now that we're going to work together again, isn't that a kind of fate?"

Xiao Chen's current state of mind is quite complicated.

He didn't really care about things like fate.

However, he knew one thing: Zhang Shouquan was a man of Fortune!

Iron Fan True Monarch and Crane Cry True Monarch had previously boasted that they Great Luck and Lucky Star.

Xiao Chen knew perfectly well that it was fake.

However, Zhang Shouquan's rapid breakthrough to the Nascent Soul Nascent Soul as a rogue cultivator must have involved various fortuitous encounters.

Including his previous appearance at the New Ruin and his subsequent visit to Zhi Yi Cave, where he successfully obtained Breakthrough Spirit Item.

They even gave a share to Xiao Chen, who happened to be going the same way.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if the two of them could become friends and go treasure hunting together in the future?

How should I describe this feeling?

If he had to describe it, Xiao Chen somewhat regarded Zhang Shouquan as a Treasure Seeking Rat.

Then I wanted to get some fortuitous opportunity or serendipitous encounters with him.

Of course, he wouldn't go so far as to actively follow the other person or cling to their side.

But you should know that this time he got on the ship first, and then Zhang Shouquan came to him on his own.

As the old saying goes, "If you don't take what Heaven gives you, you'll suffer the consequences."

Instead of ignoring the Treasure Seeking Rat that come running towards you, it's better to go with the flow.

Zhang Shouquan, already considered Treasure Seeking Rat, was completely unaware of Xiao Chen's intentions.

I just felt that there seemed to be a different meaning hidden in the other person's smile.

He raised his teacup and clinked it together. "Since we'll be working together from now on, I'll have to ask Fellow Daoist Xiao for your guidance."

Zhang Shouquan avoided answering the latter question.

In his view, the two were indeed destined for each other.

But it's a damn karmic entanglement!

With the failure of his plan to divide his forces, he is now even more convinced that nothing good ever comes of encountering Xiao Chen.

But whether it's a destined relationship or a tragic one.

In conclusion, the subsequent action plan was thus determined.

The Daoist Sect reinforcements split into two groups.

Most people remained in the Shallow Sky Sea to await the arrival of the newly allocated spirit ships, rotating disciples and reorganizing supplies.

Xiao Chen, Zhang Shouquan, and Gang Yuan True Monarch set off as soon as possible.

They went ahead to Universal Salvation Temple to provide reinforcements and to find out the true situation on the Buddhist Sect side.

However, although they said they wanted to leave as soon as possible, they couldn't actually be as swift as saying "let's go" and actually leaving.

Instead, they decided to set off together the following morning.

After all, no matter how anxious you are, a few hours won't make a difference.

Furthermore, as the head of the Heavenly Dipper Sect, Gang Yuan True Monarch also needed to settle some sect affairs.

In contrast, Xiao Chen and Zhang Shouquan had much more freedom.

Neither of them had any miscellaneous possessions or worries; all their belongings were stored in Storage Ring, so they could set off at any time.

"We're leaving tomorrow, so we have to have a good meal tonight."

Iron Fan True Monarch, acting as a de facto host, began preparing for the banquet. "Fellow Daoist Zhang just arrived today, we should at least open two jars of good wine to welcome him."

"I also specially saved a portion of crab roe from last time."

"I was originally planning to take it back to brew wine, but I'll just take it out tonight to make crab roe tofu soup and Crab Roe Soup Dumplings."