"His place of seclusion must be deep within the heart of Wind-Splitting Gorge. A frontal assault would cost too much."
"Why not... strike where he must defend and force him out!"
Both True Lords were veteran schemers, and they reached an understanding in an instant.
Hundred Poisons True Lord gave a sinister laugh. "In that case, I'll put a little more pressure on Coiled Snake County.
"Over the next few days, I'll deploy forty thousand troops and attack Rock Formation Camp with great fanfare, but only to pin them down, not launch an all-out assault.
"We must make Tie Ming and those hidden reinforcements think our main force is still facing them, and that we haven't noticed how poorly defended Wind-Splitting Gorge is.
"Give those reinforcements hiding in Coiled Snake County an illusion-the illusion that they can swallow my force whole."
"Brilliant!"
Purple Spider True Lord clapped his hands, a cruel smile appearing on his face. "Rest assured, fellow Daoist. Proceed as you see fit.
"On my end, I'll immediately draw another thirty thousand elite troops from the strongholds throughout Qiong Prefecture!
"Then I'll combine them with my own forces and launch a fierce attack on the White Stone River defensive line at dawn tomorrow!
"We'll make a show of launching a massive counteroffensive and attacking the cities!"
A cold gleam flashed through his eyes. "Chongxu and Lingxu are both birds startled by the twang of a bow. They'll certainly ask the rear for reinforcements, drawing everyone's attention to White Stone River!
"Anman Prefecture's troops will have no choice but to go to their aid as well.
"And when that happens..."
Purple Spider True Lord lowered his voice. "I'll personally lead thirty thousand of the finest Spider Demon Guard troops straight toward Withered Skeleton County under cover of the fierce