The room was unusually quiet. The two Imperial Lords paid no attention to what had just happened. They had merely heard the Northern Dipper Star Lord's report, knew perfectly well what Qin Fen was up to, and thought little of it. Besides, they had been busy tearing into each other over how to coordinate their efforts, so Big Chef's rampage through the Heavenly Prison had barely registered.
Gouchen turned his head, unwilling to look at Ziwei. What an idiot. Look, even Dongwang Gong knew to go bail them out, yet you don't understand how important talent is. If I weren't outnumbered and isolated, I'd have gone too.
The two Imperial Lords had already had another nasty spat over this. If they had not formed an alliance beforehand, Gouchen might well have stormed out by now. Still, they had to discuss what needed discussing, at least until they reached an agreement that satisfied them both. This did not mean Gouchen had any inherent reason to side with Qin Fen. He was equally wary of Big Chef; his support for the artisans was purely a matter of self-interest.
You won't talk to me? Well, I can't be bothered with you either! Ziwei looked just as disgruntled. What's wrong with you? Do you think the two of us can handle this alone? What if the Jade Emperor and the others swoop in and reap the benefits? Ziwei had to be on his guard. These days, keeping your wits about you was the only way to get ahead. Besides, they all knew one another inside out. He knew exactly what sort of person the Jade Emperor was: the man never lifted a finger unless there was something in it for him.
Standing to the side and watching the two Imperial Lords, the Northern Dipper