Longevity starts with choosing Hextech enhancement

Chapter 394 Zhang Shouquan's Plan and Objectives

Zhang Shouquan was extremely depressed and reluctantly took his seat.

He felt he had made a mistake, but there was no good way to change the situation in the short term.

Fortunately, the people around quickly started exchanging pleasantries, which soon made the atmosphere more harmonious.

In any case, Zhang Shouquan's willingness to participate in the decisive battle against the sea race is good news for the human race.

The more True Lord-level combat power you have, the better.

Moreover, although this Fellow Daoist Zhang is a newly promoted True Lord, he has shown considerable skill in array formations in front of everyone.

With this skill, everyone naturally treated him very kindly.

No one objected to his infiltration, nor did anyone mind the little joke he had just made.

Instead, they all went along with Xiao Chen's words and started joking with each other as senior and junior brothers.

This only made Zhang Shouquan even more depressed.

He just wanted to show off his young age; he didn't really want to be everyone's junior brother, so he was inexplicably half a head shorter.

If this gets out and unsuspecting people hear about it, they might think he's the weakest one.

However, everyone present was very sensible.

They quickly and spontaneously moved on from the topic.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, the conversation gradually returned to the main topic.

We will now continue to discuss the next course of action.

Of course, not everyone cares about important matters.

For example, Xiao Chen was still warmly greeting Zhang Shouquan in a low voice: "Fellow Daoist Zhang, don't be so reserved. You're sitting so upright, like you're in school."

"Come here and make yourself at home. Eat and drink as you please."

"This pot contains Chongzhen Yangxin Tea, brought out by Fellow Daoist Heming. It tastes refreshing and sweet, like the sound of pine breeze rinsing your teeth. Let me pour you a cup to try."

snort!
Zhang Shouquan sneered inwardly. They're pretending to be good people here now, but just now they were laughing the loudest!

He was being somewhat unfair to Xiao Chen. Since their seats were close together, it was inevitable that their laughter would be heard a bit louder.

However, putting this matter aside, his overall view of Xiao Chen is actually quite complex.

At first, Zhang Shouquan was filled with resentment on the Eight Directions Arena.

He's just a successor of a reclusive lineage, he's just ahead of him because he has a better background.

Given time, with the inheritance he obtained from the secret realm, he will surely be able to surpass his opponent.

Moreover, I heard that Xiao Chen spent money lavishly at the auction.

As a rogue cultivator, Zhang Shouquan had a natural aversion to such things.

However, the chance encounter in the new ruins, coupled with the suppression of the sea creatures and the killing of traitors, led to this event.

This made him feel much more favorably toward Xiao Chen, and he thought that Xiao Chen was a good person with decent character.

However, after the incident where the two smuggled themselves into the blocked Pudu Temple and divided up the sacred objects.

Zhang Shouquan couldn't help but feel somewhat depressed.

He originally had the chance to keep all those things for himself, but he ran into Xiao Chen and ended up having half of them taken away.

So when they said goodbye, he sincerely hoped that the two of them would part ways and never see each other again.

As it turns out, my initial assumption was absolutely correct.

When the two met this time, his carefully prepared plan was indeed ruined halfway through.

Looking at Xiao Chen, Zhang Shouquan felt a sense of unease, as if nothing good ever came of meeting him.

He couldn't help but wonder if the two of them were incompatible according to their birth charts.

If that's the case, you'll need to consciously keep your distance from the other person.

However, what one thinks in one's mind is one thing, but the actual actions one takes cannot be so simple and crude.

Zhang Shouquan politely raised his cup to express his gratitude: "Since Fellow Daoist Xiao has said so, then I must have a good taste of this tea to see just how good it is."

His thoughts were very simple.

Since everyone is currently united in fighting against the sea creatures, we might as well play along for now and part ways later when the opportunity arises.

However, when I think of this...

Zhang Shouquan looked up at the crowd arguing in front of him and a thought suddenly struck him.

Instead, he smiled and asked casually, "What you fellow Daoists have said about the upcoming action plan against the sea race makes a lot of sense."

"As a newcomer, I was also completely confused when I heard this."

"But I wonder what Fellow Daoist Xiao thinks about this?"

I would be grateful for your guidance.

Regarding this issue, Xiao Chen maintained his previous attitude: "I've never really cared about this. As long as everyone thinks it's okay, then I'm okay with it too."

"And I also believe that the plan that everyone brainstorms and discusses should be correct."

This kind of thing can be left for True Lord Gangyuan and the others to ponder.

Since someone else is doing the work for him, Xiao Chen only needs to rest for a few days, then share everyone's wisdom and find out the finalized plan.

Since everyone's goal is to eliminate the sea creatures, why make ourselves work so hard and worry so much?

"Oh, so that's what happened."

Zhang Shouquan nodded and complimented, "Fellow Daoist Xiao is truly dashing and unrestrained, a sight to behold."

But in reality, he had a plan in mind.

Since everyone is still arguing, could he propose a compromise?

While resolving disputes, achieve your own goals.

Zhang Shouquan's initiative to participate in the fight against the sea creatures naturally stemmed from his own motives.

Moreover, unlike Xiao Chen, who wanted to hunt powerful demons to obtain spiritual materials, he didn't really care about the outcome of the battle, or even the final result.

Instead, they paid more attention to the fifth-order defensive array located in Pudu Temple.

You should know that, looking across the entire Compassionate Sea, only there is a fifth-order grand formation.

While they may not be absolutely absent elsewhere, they are often hidden in various ruins or secret realms.

Not only are the intervals between activations long and the duration short, but the array base and array flags are also covered by various restrictive forces and buildings.

Determining the location is extremely difficult, let alone using it for study and research.

Nowadays, only at Pudu Temple is there a chance to get up close to a fifth-order grand formation.

Moreover, it is a fully activated, fifth-order array operating at full capacity.

For a formation master who is eager to improve their skills, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Normally, if a kind-hearted person were willing to activate a fifth-order grand formation, they would burn out mid-grade spirit stones.

There simply weren't that many enemies charging into the formation, which could provide a realistic and effective stress test scenario.

In short, it can be summed up in four words—a golden opportunity!
This is the main reason why Zhang Shouquan, a rogue cultivator, was willing to stand up and fight against the sea race.

Therefore, from his perspective, he would definitely support the suggestion of Gangyuan Zhenjun.

The sooner you get to Pudu Temple, the sooner you can access the fifth-order grand formation.

And you should know that Zhang Shouquan is a relatively rare array master.

At that time, as reinforcements, he can directly participate in the operation of the great formation, whether he is responsible for helping to repair the formation base or repair the formation patterns.

Not only can you see them, but you can also touch some of the actual objects.

Not only that, if he encounters something he can't figure out along the way, he can use the excuse of repairing the formation to ask the Zen master in charge of studying formations at Pudu Temple for advice.

To gain a deeper understanding of the layout and operating principles of the fifth-order grand formation.

Moreover, at this point, it's highly unlikely that Pudu Temple would keep its secrets out of fear that he might steal them.

Instead, they will teach him diligently and help him quickly become familiar with the formation to improve maintenance efficiency.

It's practically like getting half a teacher for free, and afterwards the other person even has to thank him.

You won't find another thing as good as this in the whole world!

However, even the best things have corresponding risks.

In most cases, the greater the benefit, the greater the corresponding risk.

Even if it's not obvious on the surface, it only means that danger is lurking in the shadows.

Therefore, Zhang Shouquan supported Gangyuan Zhenjun's suggestion.

However, he made a modification based on the other party's approach: "Fellow Daoists, I also have a suggestion regarding our next move, which I would like to discuss with you all."

"What do you all think about us splitting into two groups and acting separately?"

When the topic of separate actions came up, Zhang Shouquan subconsciously glanced at Xiao Chen beside him out of the corner of his eye.

The brilliance of his plan lies in the fact that it allows him to get rid of this guy in a reasonable and justifiable way.

"Splitting the troops? I'm afraid that's not a good idea."

Upon hearing this, True Monarch Iron Fan immediately shook his head: "Fellow Daoist Zhang, even now, the sea race still retains a considerable strength."

"If we stand together, we can rely on each other."

"But if we split up, we might be defeated by being scattered."

Gangyuan Zhenjun also disagreed with splitting up the troops: "That's right, I also think it's inappropriate to act separately."

"Objectively speaking, although Fellow Daoist Xiao deserves great credit, the sea race's strategy of launching separate invasions was also one of the important reasons for their defeats on multiple fronts."

"We must learn from this and not make the same mistake."

To be honest, the sea creatures did give them a chance.

If they were all huddled together, even with Xiao Chen's mechanical grappling hook, he would likely struggle to succeed.

This thing is very powerful in one-on-one combat, and in fair battles it can also quickly reduce the enemy's numbers.

However, it is difficult to play a significant role when one's own side is outnumbered, since it can only be used once per battle.

If the disadvantage persists after using it, then there's no further recourse.

“What you two fellow Daoists say makes sense, but I have also thought about this point.”

Despite his suggestions being refuted by both sides, Zhang Shouquan remained calm and composed, appearing confident and composed.

He even calmly took a sip of tea first.

He then explained, "What I meant by splitting the troops into two groups was not an even division, but rather one large and one small."

"First, send a small number of people to Pudu Temple to help relieve some of the defensive pressure."

"Before I came here, I heard that the attack they had suffered was the most severe and the situation was the most dangerous since the start of the war."

"They have persisted for so long, they must be exhausted and worn out by now, they are just forcing themselves to keep going."

"Let's send a few people first, no matter how many, it should be a timely help."

"At the same time, the main force followed Fellow Daoist Iron Fan's strategy, maintaining a certain distance from the main force of the sea race on the periphery to observe the situation."

Zhang Shouquan held up two fingers: "There are two advantages to doing this."

"Firstly, even if the sea creatures launch a surprise attack, the side with more people can hold their ground by relying on the spirit ship and have sufficient strength to resist."

"Secondly, if any unforeseen circumstances arise, we can respond promptly and strike back decisively." "Wouldn't that be a win-win situation?"

"What do you fellow Daoists think?"

To say that Zhang Shouquan's plan was particularly good was an understatement; it was merely a compromise.

However, it was quite popular with the surrounding True Lords.

Firstly, everyone had discussed it for a long time before he arrived, and each had different ideas that made it difficult to reach a consensus.

Secondly, human nature always prefers compromise; those who understand this know it and need no further explanation.

Therefore, after discussing for a long time, no good solution could be found.

Zhang Shouquan's compromise proposal appealed to many people.

"Hmm, Fellow Daoist Zhang's consideration is quite prudent."

Iron Fan True Lord first praised him, then changed the subject: "However, this creates a new problem."

"So, which of our fellow Daoists should we send ahead to Pudu Temple?"

"I think it's not just me; many fellow Daoists are also worried about the hidden conspiracies and schemes of the sea race."

"If this plan is followed, wouldn't the few fellow Daoists who go to Pudu Temple be more likely to encounter danger?"

His concern is indeed very valid.

However, this was exactly what Zhang Shouquan wanted: "It's not difficult at this time!"

"Since it was I who proposed this plan, I am naturally willing to be among the first to provide reinforcements to Pudu Temple."

He's willing to go, absolutely willing!

"Fellow Daoist Zhang, there's no need for that. I didn't mean it that way."

Iron Fan True Lord explained, "The reason I spoke up was simply to share my opinions and fill in any gaps."

Zhang Shouquan quickly said, "No, no, no, Fellow Daoist Iron Fan has misunderstood. I did not mean to force myself."

"If I were afraid of the threat posed by the sea creatures, why would I have come here willingly?"

"Therefore, I went willingly from the bottom of my heart, and even more so, I couldn't have asked for it."

"Besides, I heard before I came that the sea creatures were charging into battle almost day and night."

"I imagine that Pudu Temple must have accumulated quite a few damaged array bases as well."

"I happen to know a bit about array formations, so maybe I can play a small role in maintaining the great array over there."

After Zhang Shouquan said this, the others also felt that he was indeed a suitable candidate.

Even Gangyuan Zhenjun nodded in agreement: "That's right, Fellow Daoist Zhang has thought this through very carefully."

"During the years of war, the large formation over there has indeed been under too much pressure, and we should help share the burden."

"In that case, I'll go along too and see if I can get involved in the repairs."

Han Chuan Zhenjun followed closely behind and said, "Then count me in too, let's go together as a trio."

"That should bring the number of people to about right."

Since a small number of people are going first, three is enough; otherwise, it would really be split up.

"Hmm, that's not a good idea!"

Upon hearing this, True Monarch Gangyuan frowned slightly: "Junior Brother, you shouldn't go. It's better to stay here for now."

"Once the sea creatures discover that Shallow Sky Sea has fallen, they will likely set up a large formation outside."

"If all the people on our side who are skilled in formations go to Pudu Temple, wouldn't that create an opening outside?"

Not only that, but True Lord Gangyuan also seemed to be putting all his eggs in one basket.

“Fellow Daoist Gangyuan is right, we also need to leave a formation master outside.”

Seeing this, Xiao Chen immediately volunteered: "How about this, Fellow Daoist Hanchuan stays, and I'll go to Pudu Temple instead."

"To be honest, I've long wanted to see this place, which is said to be the most prosperous in the Sea of ​​Compassion."

"Besides, I do have an acquaintance there."

“Last time at the new ruins, Arhat Fazhao invited me to visit there.”

"Speaking of which, he is now Zen Master Fazhao, so I might as well go and pay him a visit again."

Actually, it's just that it's still early.

If another one or two hundred years pass, and the disciples who were in the new ruins grow up and officially step onto the grand stage of the Ocean of Compassion.

Xiao Chen was the one who truly had acquaintances wherever he went, and could speak with people from both the Buddhist and Taoist communities.

However, judging from the current situation, it may not be necessary to go through so much trouble.

After this sea creature invasion ends, based solely on his already distinguished military achievements, he could be treated as an honored guest by any power in the Compassionate Sea.

It is no exaggeration to say that among the cultivators who remain in the Sea of ​​Compassion and have not left, there are still many who have not left.

It would be difficult to find someone who hadn't heard of Xiao Chen's battle report.

After all, that was the reason why the major powers distributed contribution points to their disciples during their previous celebrations.

"So good!"

Iron Fan True Monarch also spoke up in support: "Fellow Daoist Hanchuan's mastery of formations is indeed quite profound. It would be more prudent for him to stay outside and provide support."

Everyone was trying to persuade him, and they were giving very good reasons.

Han Chuan Zhenjun had no choice but to abandon his idea of ​​fighting side by side and nodded in agreement: "In that case, I'll stay."

"But senior brother, you should be careful when you fight alone. Don't rush too far forward on a whim."

"We are naturally at a disadvantage when it comes to strength compared to a powerful demon."

Gangyuan Zhenjun smiled and said, "Junior brother, you can rest assured. But I'll have to take good care of you since I'm leaving you out here alone."

"It's just a bit troublesome normally, as we need to send out several patrol boats to clear the way and be wary of ambush formations set up by the sea creatures."

The two brothers expressed their concern for each other.

Zhang Shouquan, on the other hand, stared wide-eyed. Wait a minute, how did it turn out like this?

Why did they change people?

Don't mention it!
He wasn't against the idea of ​​keeping Han Chuan Zhenjun.

The key point is that this means his plan to distance himself from Xiao Chen will be cut short before it even begins.

No, there's something really wrong with this!
They were clearly planning to act separately, and there were only three of them on their side. How could they all be grouped together?
Zhang Shouquan almost wanted to shout, "If that's the case, then let me stay!"

But he had seemed so actively involved before, and now he just couldn't bring himself to say it.

Sigh, another miscalculation!

If I had known it would turn out this way, I shouldn't have made my statement beforehand.

He should wait for Xiao Chen to make his stance clear first, and then he can go to the opposite side.

But now it's too late to say anything.

"Oh dear, Fellow Daoist Zhang, we'll be setting off together soon."

Xiao Chen picked up his teacup: "Come, come, let's have a drink with tea instead of wine."

He lowered his voice and said, "When we parted last time, I said we'd meet again."

"I knew it!"

"Now that we're going to work together again, isn't that a kind of fate?"

Xiao Chen's current state of mind is quite complicated.

He doesn't really care about things like fate.

However, he knew one thing: Zhang Shouquan was a man of great fortune!
Iron Fan True Lord and Crane Cry True Lord had previously boasted that they were blessed with great fortune and good luck.

In fact, Xiao Chen knew very well that it was fake.

However, Zhang Shouquan's rapid breakthrough to the Nascent Soul stage as a rogue cultivator must have involved various fortuitous encounters.

Including his previous appearance at the new ruins and his subsequent visit to Zhiyi Cave, where he successfully obtained a breakthrough item.

They even gave a share to Xiao Chen, who happened to be going the same way.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if the two of them could become friends and go treasure hunting together in the future?

How should I describe this feeling?

If he had to describe it, Xiao Chen would say he somewhat regarded Zhang Shouquan as a treasure-hunting rat.

Then I wanted to get some luck or serendipitous encounters with him.

Of course, he certainly wouldn't go so far as to actively follow the other person or cling to their side.

But you should know that this time he got on the ship first, and then Zhang Shouquan came to him on his own.

As the old saying goes, "If you don't take what Heaven gives you, you'll suffer the consequences."

Instead of ignoring the treasure-hunting rats that come running towards you, it's better to go with the flow.

Zhang Shouquan, who was already considered a treasure hunter, was completely unaware of Xiao Chen's thoughts.

I just felt that there seemed to be a different meaning hidden in the other person's smile.

He raised his teacup and clinked it together: "Since we're going to be working together from now on, I'll have to ask Fellow Daoist Xiao for your guidance."

Zhang Shouquan avoided discussing the latter question.

In his view, the two were indeed destined to be together.

But it was a damn ill-fated relationship!
With the failure of his plan to divide his forces, he is now even more convinced that nothing good ever comes of encountering Xiao Chen.

But whether it's a destined relationship or a tragic one.

In conclusion, the subsequent action plan was thus determined.

The Taoist reinforcements split into two groups.

Most people remained in the shallow sea to await the arrival of the newly allocated spirit ships, rotating disciples and reorganizing supplies.

Xiao Chen, Zhang Shouquan, and Gangyuan Zhenjun set off as soon as possible.

They went ahead to Pudu Temple to provide reinforcements and to find out the true situation on the Buddhist side.

However, although we said we should leave as soon as possible, we couldn't actually be so decisive as to just pack up and go.

Instead, they decided to set off together the next morning.

After all, no matter how anxious you are, a few hours won't make a difference.

Furthermore, as the head of the Tiangang Sect, Gangyuan Zhenjun also needed to settle the sect's affairs a bit.

In contrast, Xiao Chen and Zhang Shouquan were much freer.

Neither of them had any miscellaneous possessions or worries; all their belongings were stored in storage rings, so they could set off at any time.

"We're leaving tomorrow, so we have to have a good meal tonight."

Iron Fan True Lord, acting as a semi-host, began preparing for the banquet: "Fellow Daoist Zhang just arrived today, so we should at least open two jars of good wine to welcome him."

"In addition, I also specially saved a portion of crab roe last time."

"I was originally thinking of taking it back to brew wine, but I might as well take it out tonight to make crab roe tofu soup and crab roe xiaolongbao."

(End of this chapter)