Chen Shi'an considered for a moment. "Not necessarily. I've dealt with Gu Qingyao quite a few times, and I can tell she isn't someone content to live under another's thumb.
Desolate Suppression City wants to control Flowing Stone Stronghold and turn them into puppets on strings. That certainly isn't something Gu Qingyao can accept.
Her rise to power isn't necessarily a bad thing for us. Who knows? Flowing Stone Stronghold might contact us soon."
Xiang Li raised his brows slightly, a puzzled look crossing his face.
Chen Shi'an continued, "Gu Qingyao isn't willing to live under another's thumb. She'll certainly try every means she can to break free of Desolate Suppression City's control.
Flowing Stone Stronghold stands alone and lacks strength, so they'll have to seek help. We're one potential choice.
At the same time, the enmity between Windrise Stronghold and Flowing Stone Stronghold will ease somewhat with Xiang Chuxiong's death and Gu Xiaotian's abdication.
Naturally, that makes cooperation between us more likely."
Xiang Li nodded. "There's some sense to your conjecture. But we also need to prepare for another possibility: Gu Qingyao might use Desolate Suppression City's support to subdue Blackwater Stronghold first, then turn on Windrise Stronghold."
Chen Shi'an nodded. "That's also why I came today.
Since you're already on your guard, City Lord, we need to start preparing now.
Thanks to my placing fourth in the Gathering of Heroes, Windrise Stronghold's name has now resounded throughout the Desolate Ruins.
Quite a few people in the Desolate Ruins have come to join Windrise Stronghold because of its reputation.
As our numbers keep growing, our stronghold will naturally become increasingly crowded.
I think we should take this opportunity to expand the city, enlarge the stronghold, and build the walls higher and thicker.
You've seen Desolate Suppression City too. If