After Qing Chen left the great hall, he had the Outer Sect disciples of the Inspector's residence see the Household heads out.
Then Qing Chen summoned the two women to his study by voice transmission.
After going over a few final details, Qing Chen instructed them:
"Off you two go. Remember to make it utterly convincing." He then waved the two women away.
Once the two women had left, Qing Chen summoned Gao Yuliang.
Gao Yuliang entered the study with steady steps and a respectful expression. He bowed first and said, "Greetings, Martial Uncle."
Qing Chen nodded slightly and looked straight at Gao Yuliang. "Martial Nephew Gao, how is the matter I assigned you a few days ago progressing?"
Gao Yuliang's expression was solemn as he answered, "Martial Uncle, everything is proceeding according to plan. All has gone smoothly so far, with no oversights."
At this, Qing Chen nodded, then abruptly changed tack, his tone chilling. "Very good. In that case, it is time to carry out the next step of the plan.
"You must secretly contact those hidden agents and ensure they can play their part at the crucial moment. At the same time, keep a close watch on the movements of the various Lineages on Mysterious Constancy Island.
"Especially the three great Lineages-the Chang Household, the Cao Household, and the Liu Household. Report even the slightest rustle of wind or grass to me at once."
A sharp gleam flashed through Gao Yuliang's eyes at these words. He bowed and accepted the order. "Yes, Martial Uncle. Your subordinate understands. I will not fail your trust."
Several days later, amid a stretch of mountains a hundred li outside Mysterious Constancy City.
A trading Market Ward for cultivators stood there, the largest cultivation Market Ward on Mysterious Constancy Island.
Cultivators from