So this universe was already filled with legends I had left behind (please subscribe!) (continued)

"Zhou Min holds an important post in the Upper Parliament, after all. Her limited backing means her connections aren't extensive, but her fairness has earned her tremendous prestige in the Lower Congress and even the Upper and Lower Councils.

"And although we secretly pulled strings to have her transferred to the Outer Domain, officially, she was entrusted with an important assignment there by the Council of Elders.

"Secretly stealing blood to test the girl's physique already overstepped our bounds. We escaped notice only because it was a minor matter that left no traces. But if we forcibly take control of Qi Xiyuan, paper won't be able to smother the flames. Public controversy will erupt within two or three days.

"The Never-Setting Royal Family, the Canghai Clan, and the Mo Family all hold seats on the Council of Elders. They won't simply stand by, either.

"Once this comes to light, the resulting upheaval may cost us more than we gain!"

"..."

After those words, silence settled over the conference room for a moment.

The elder's concerns had undeniably struck at the heart of the matter.

The Lan Tuo Family was powerful now, but it was still nowhere near strong enough to openly provoke universal outrage. After all, there were still the two transcendent branches of the Divine Lineage.

Tap... tap...

Lantuo Tang's gaze darkened as his fingertips tapped lightly against the table. His expression was sinister as he spoke again:

"Forcibly taking control of her outright would naturally make our greed look too ugly and provoke public outrage. But right now, we're the only ones who have discovered Qi Xiyuan's secret.

"With Zhou Min in the Outer Domain, we have at least half a year to lay our plans at leisure.

"During that time, keep a close watch on Qi Xiyuan