Chen Shi'an said softly, "If we join forces with Blackwater Stronghold's higher-ups and coordinate from within and without, taking Blackwater Stronghold shouldn't be difficult."
Xiang Li thought for a moment. "Even so, would Flowing Stone Stronghold and Desolate Suppression City simply ignore it? They certainly won't stand idly by. They're bound to stick a foot in."
Chen Shi'an raised his eyelids slightly. "Desolate Suppression City and Flowing Stone Stronghold are no cause for concern. First, Huang Dao killed an expert from Desolate Suppression City at Falling Geese Slope. This has had quite an impact on both Desolate Suppression City and Flowing Stone Stronghold. They'll probably need some time to digest it and respond.
"That slash of Huang Dao's didn't just cut down a fourth-grade expert from Desolate Suppression City. It slapped Desolate Suppression City in the face.
"Desolate Suppression City certainly won't let the matter rest. For the time being, their attention will be drawn to Huang Dao.
"As for Flowing Stone Stronghold, Gu Qingyao has only just taken power. Her main focus right now must be on consolidating her position and bringing the stronghold under her control. She has no time to spare for anything else, giving us the perfect window of opportunity.
"There's another point. When we strike Blackwater Stronghold, what we want isn't its territory or mineral veins, but the wealth in the Fang family's hands.
"Once we've seized the Fang family's wealth, we'll withdraw from Blackwater Stronghold and return it to its own people.
"In and out quickly. By the time Desolate Suppression City and Flowing Stone Stronghold react, it'll be too late."
Xiang Li's eyes shifted slightly. "So you already have a plan?"
Chen Shi'an nodded. "I'm working on it."
Xiang Li added, "Whatever help you need, just ask."
Chen Shi'an shook his head. "This