At the sight of him, Wen Zhong's heart tightened.
Zhao Gongming had always been composed. Unless something grave had happened, he would never have come in person in the dead of night.
"Senior Brother." Wen Zhong rose and saluted.
Zhao Gongming waved a hand and sat down opposite him, getting straight to the point. "Ji Chang of Xiqi has rebelled, and so has Yuan Futong of the North Sea."
"These two rebel armies raised their banners at the same time. That is no coincidence."
Wen Zhong frowned slightly. "Do you mean Xiqi and the North Sea have been colluding in secret, Martial Uncle?"
"Not necessarily colluding." Zhao Gongming slowly shook his head. "But there are certainly hands pulling the strings behind both."
"Behind Ji Chang of Xiqi, it is most likely the Chan Sect."
"The Twelve Golden Immortals of Jade Void Palace have been taking disciples far and wide over the years, precisely to build up strength for the Investiture of Gods Great Tribulation."
"With Ji Chang raising the banner of rebellion, the Chan Sect must be supporting him in secret."
"As for Yuan Futong of the North Sea-"
He paused, his gaze sharpening slightly. "The Yuan Clan was originally propped up by Kunpeng and the Greater Fate Commander together."
"Though Kunpeng has fallen, the Yuan Clan's foundations remain."
"Now that Yuan Futong has suddenly risen in arms, remnants of those forces may well be stirring things up behind him."
"But regardless, Yuan Futong has no Saint's lineage backing him."
Wen Zhong looked thoughtful. "You mean Yuan Futong will be easier to defeat than Xiqi, Senior Brother?"
"Not easier to defeat," Zhao Gongming corrected. "We strike the weaker one first."
"Xiqi has the Chan Sect's support. Ji Chang himself is an old hand at schemes, with Jiang Ziya assisting him.