They were only considering how far Zhao Lie's sword strike could force Jian Wuchen.
Likewise, they were considering how Jian Wuchen would respond to Zhao Lie's dense, tempest-like barrage of immensely powerful ultimate attacks.
They were also hoping that Zhao Lie's formidable strike could force Jian Wuchen to reveal some of his methods, perhaps even leave him in a sorry state and barely claim victory.
That way, when Li Chengfeng took the stage, he would be completely certain of defeating him, ensuring that this gathering of prodigies in Shuiyang Prefecture—which they had stirred up—would still end with them taking first place.
And by stepping on Jian Wuchen's reputation as the Southern Six Sects' foremost prodigy—the man who had defeated the direct disciples of the Southern Six Sects—they could rise another step higher.
Then, regardless of what measures the Third Prince might take in his future struggle for the throne, or how matters unfolded in Green Mountain City, he would possess greater power to protect himself.
Moreover, once he gained such fame, his future path in martial arts would undoubtedly become broader and easier.
The higher vistas of martial arts, the knowledge once closed off to him—perhaps all of it would open wider from this day onward. How could that not stir one's longing?
It was precisely because of these prospects that Zhao Lie was willing to serve as the vanguard, probing Jian Wuchen's methods for Li Chengfeng and even draining his strength to pave the way for Li Chengfeng's victory.
All of this had been arranged long ago.
Unlike many unreliable friends he had only recently met, Zhao Lie was Li Chengfeng's friend through life and death. Now that it was time to act, he did not hesitate in the slightest and chose to strike directly.
Thus, Li Chengfeng had