"So, what are the fragments?" the Nether Son asked.
Duan Wuyi's lips moved.
The Nether Son froze, then his pupils suddenly contracted.
He stared at Duan Wuyi. "Are you sure this is real?"
Duan Wuyi glanced at Xia Qiuer. "The Imperial Court's Saintess is here. I wouldn't choose this place to lie to you, would I?"
Xia Qiuer nodded. "What Young Master Duan said is indeed true. One of the two fragments is that very thing. There's only one, but it's enough to shake the world."
The Nether Son drew a deep breath, his heart in turmoil. "No wonder all you Era Prodigies came here. The fragments turn out to be such world-shaking treasures."
Duan Wuyi smiled. "Now that you know the truth, I hope you'll consider our offer to cooperate, fellow Daoist. There's strength in numbers. Once we obtain the fragments, we can share them."
The Nether Son nodded. "I'll think it over when I get back."
Duan Wuyi's smile widened. "I'll look forward to your good news."
He turned to Xia Qiuer. "Saintess, our cooperation wouldn't conflict with your plans. You need to make a gift, while the Nether Son and I would each take a portion of the fragments. There'd still be enough left for you to use."
Xia Qiuer fell into thought.
"Cooperation has only benefits and no drawbacks," Duan Wuyi said. "According to what I've heard, everyone else is making quiet moves, and many have already formed alliances."
"I doubt I'm the first to approach you. Given your special status, far above that of ordinary people, you'll probably be the last people anyone visits. But no one would willingly pass up such powerful allies."
Xia Qiuer added, "Let me think it over too."
Duan Wuyi nodded. "Then I'll await your good news as well, Saintess.