"Chi? I remember the Phoenix Clan dug quite a few pits for you."
At that, Bai Yujun shrugged.
"Probably because they can't move me anymore. The Phoenix Clan isn't a solid slab of iron within, either. Things like an Elder Council have both advantages and drawbacks. When all goes smoothly, anything can be discussed. But once a crisis strikes, they can easily change their tune and alter course."
"Besides, the Phoenix Clan's true decision-maker has yet to awaken. Even if they do, they'll still have to give Little Phoenix some face."
Little Phoenix crouched on the chair back, busy lowering her head to peck at vegetables as if she had heard nothing.
Mu Duo asked curiously.
"The terminal docks are making such a grand show of preparing supplies. Won't the Devil Race learn of it beforehand? Shouldn't warfare be kept secret?"
Bai Yujun did not answer immediately. Beating Little Phoenix to it, she picked up the vegetables she had already had her eye on and placed them in her bowl.
She stuffed them into her mouth and swallowed them with a gulp.
"In theory, it should be kept secret. But the more widely this expedition is publicized, the better. We're strong enough. It would be a good thing if the Demon Realm organized resistance—it saves us from running all over the place. One battle will be enough to settle everything completely."
"We're striking the Devil Race first because they can't invite reinforcements. The various forces of the wilderness place face above all else and value their reputations. They cannot bear the consequences of aiding the Devil Race. If we attacked the West or some immortal domain instead, the Devil Race, who have never cared about face, would certainly throw themselves into the fight with all their strength. So we're taking