Bei Ming and Nüwa tore through the air. Below them stretched endless yellow sands and broken rocks, while the wind howled and tugged at their sleeves.
After leaving Mount Sumeru, the two traveled north from the west, crossing the vast emptiness.
After a while, Nüwa spoke with a thoughtful look. "Jieyin and Zhunti of the West have always been infamous throughout the Primordial Wilderness for their shamelessness.
"This time, their goodwill toward you surely comes with ill intent;
"They are probably still plotting how to harm the Eastern Continent and benefit the West. What exactly are you thinking?"
Bei Ming gazed toward the boundless firmament ahead and replied unhurriedly:
"From our standpoint, the Three Pure Ones are three ferocious tigers, while Jieyin is a sinister jackal of the West.
"In disputes over interests, none of them are good people.
"Jieyin sees things clearly—the Three Pure Ones are one, and their forces are immense.
"If you and I wish to oppose them, it will be difficult, but not entirely without winning odds.
"Therefore, I will not take the initiative to seek Jieyin's help.
"If Jieyin wants Western Prosperity, there must first be upheaval in the Eastern Continent.
"If we maintain an even balance with the Three Pure Ones, creating a stalemate, he will have no opportunity to exploit.
"If he wants an Eastward advance, the Three Pure Ones will surely suppress him. We have no reason to help him.
"That is why he chose to help us first."
Bei Ming's gaze narrowed slightly, and his voice sank. "Once we go to war with the Three Pure Ones, he will lend us his strength.
"Using the karma Zhunti owes me, he promised to help once for free.
"But think about it—you and I, together with Jieyin, against the Three Pure Ones;
"Even