The long-bearded Daoist stroked his beard and pondered for a long while. "I know of Xu Chengtong. He was once a steward of Nether City in Kui Lodge, and his cultivation is indeed formidable. But would he truly have much loyalty toward that man? Could you have gotten something wrong, fellow Daoist? Perhaps he merely yielded to that man's methods?"
The ancient-robed cultivator shook his head. "We need not concern ourselves with what his identity was in the past. We need only see what he is doing now. If that man has means to control him, then does that not make him all the more worthy of caution?"
After thinking it over, the long-bearded Daoist said, "That is true. The new garrison guardian appointed by the Profound Court has yet to arrive, so now is indeed an excellent time to make a move in Eastern Court. But the Protectorate Office is no longer what it once was. Not only is a contingent of armored soldiers stationed there, but forbidden arrays have also been set up. If he remains in the city, he can receive support in the blink of an eye. It would be best to lure him out of Auspicious Light City before acting."
The ancient-robed cultivator said, "Rest assured. When the time comes, someone will naturally help us draw away the Protectorate Office's attention."
"Who?"
The ancient-robed cultivator replied carelessly, "A group of furtive, scheming wretches—the Revival God Association. You know that, some time ago, that man seemed to have ruined one of the Revival God Association's plans. As it happens, one of my disciples has had dealings with them before. We conveyed our intentions to each other, and they said they would help."
The long-bearded Daoist asked cautiously, "Can they be trusted?"
The ancient-robed cultivator said, "We