Chapter 191: Speculation

Chapter 191: Speculation

Wusheng Hall

Below Grand Master Wan Yutang, there are twelve halls.

While these twelve halls have different functions, they lack unique names.

They are merely numbered from one to twelve.

The name Ren Xiongfei was unfamiliar to Su Mo.

However, Wei Ziyi, the little princess of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance, immediately understood.

"The deputy of the Tenth Hall?

"Indeed, a prominent figure."

The blade warrior instinctively looked up at Wei Ziyi upon hearing this:

"Who... are you?"

There are a total of twenty-four leaders and deputies across the twelve halls of Wusheng Hall.

Not everyone within the territory of Wusheng Hall could name them all, as some hall leaders are mysterious and never appear in public.

Yet, at this moment, a random escort in the Fallen Phoenix Alliance territory instantly recognized Ren Xiongfei.

The blade warrior couldn't help but wonder about the identity of the person before him.

"Heh..."

Wei Ziyi grinned and said to Su Mo, "Shall I handle this person?"

"Do you already have an idea, Young Miss Wei?"

"Yes, I do."

Wei Ziyi furrowed her brows. Upon hearing 'Young Miss,' the blade warrior suddenly recalled that Su Mo had also called her 'Young Miss Wei.' His expression changed dramatically:

"Are you Wei Ruohan’s granddaughter from the Fallen Phoenix Alliance?"

"Too much talk, do you even have a say here? If your tongue weren’t still useful, I’d cut it out now."

Wei Ziyi gave the blade warrior a cold look, then pulled Su Mo aside.

Once they reached a secluded spot, Su Mo quickly shrugged off Wei Ziyi’s hand:

"Pulling and tugging, what kind of decorum is this?"

"We are people of the jianghu; why bother with trivialities?"

Wei Ziyi shot Su Mo a glance: "Chief Escort Su, what’s your take on tonight’s events?"

"I'm eager to hear Young Miss Wei’s insights."

"...You're quite cunning. You already have a thought in mind but insist on hearing me first."

Wei Ziyi shook her head. "In my opinion, what he said is mostly true. He is not afraid of death, but the person by his side is terribly afraid of it."

"It seems that the Wusheng Hall is really planning to take this opportunity to plot against our Fallen Phoenix Alliance.

"I didn’t expect that they would claim dominion here, only to run into the two of us.

"Heaven favors our Fallen Phoenix Alliance, not the Wusheng Hall."

Su Mo nodded lightly. "What next?"

"I plan to use this person in our strategy and see if we can capture Ren Xiongfei from the Wusheng Hall.

"However, it’s still unclear what the Wusheng Hall is truly planning.

"But obviously, such hidden dangers are definitely not limited to just this one place.

"For now, the most important thing is to find a way to uncover the people they’ve planted within the Fallen Phoenix Alliance’s territory...

"There’s something else... I just mentioned that these people are coming from the west, and they can’t bypass Sunset City no matter what.

"Yet, there’s been no word of this in Sunset City at all. This is very strange."

"Are you suggesting..."

Su Mo looked thoughtfully at Wei Ziyi. "Is there someone in the Fallen Phoenix Alliance secretly working with the Wusheng Hall?"

"Exactly."

"Do we have any suspects?"

"It’s too soon to tell..."

Wei Ziyi let out a soft breath. "Actually, reasonably speaking, the person I should be most suspicious of is Wu Daoyou. However, because he’s the most obvious, I trust him the least.

"Right now, the Fallen Phoenix Alliance is at a crucial moment.

"Wu Daoyou is in a struggle for power with my grandfather and my mother. He thinks it’s a three-way conflict, but in reality, it’s two against one.

"At least on the surface, he has a significant edge.

"In this situation, there’s no need to seek external assistance. That would be like inviting disaster!

"Wu Daoyou is a smart man. He wouldn’t make such a foolish move.

"Then the list of suspects is much shorter."

Su Mo nodded.

"Exactly..."

Wei Ziyi said gravely. "Because if they head west... there’s one territory they can’t avoid."

"Jinyang."

Su Mo let out a soft breath, and at the mention of this place, he felt a mix of emotions.

His first escort mission was to Jinyang. "Do you suspect that the leaders in Jinyang, or one of them, have secretly colluded with the Wusheng Hall, planning to strike a fatal blow to the Fallen Phoenix Alliance during its internal conflict?"

"...I hope I’m mistaken."

Wei Ziyi’s face showed no joy, only a hint of melancholy.

"The Fallen Phoenix Alliance has developed into a situation where it is now a den of wolves. A single misstep, and the four cities, three rivers, and two bays might be bathed in blood."

Su Mo smiled. "Miss Wei, your wisdom and strategies are no less than Little Yun's."

"Is that so?"

Wei Ziyi's eyes lit up, and she grinned. "Thank you for the compliment, Chief Escort Su. By the way, what do you think, Chief Escort Su? Let’s exchange our thoughts."

"Me?"

Su Mo pondered for a moment and did not speak immediately.

The primary reason was that tonight's events reminded Su Mo of two matters.

The first was... Wei Ruhan, Hua Qianyu, and Wu Daoyou—these three had still not revealed their true colors to the rest of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance.

Normally speaking, Hua Qianyu could have disclosed her connection to Wei Ruhan by now.

The fact that Wu Daoyou was Wei Ruhan's man could have become public knowledge.

If that were the case, what conflict would remain?

The contest for the position of Grand Master of the Alliance, aside from Zhou Qingchuan, whom Su Mo had eliminated, was now reduced to six people.

Hua Qianyu, Wei Ziyi, Wu Daoyou, and Chi Lu, who had just joined, along with the alliance leader who recently aligned with Wu Daoyou—these five were already on the same boat.

The last one, facing this overwhelming tide, would have no choice but to submit or be destroyed.

Thus, this drama had essentially reached its climax.

But why hasn’t it concluded yet?

When Wei Ziyi mentioned this at the Ziyang Escort Agency, Su Mo found it peculiar.

And now, seeing this scene before him, he couldn’t help but see a connection.

Wei Ruhan... does he know something?

Expanding on this...

Everyone knew how intense the internal strife within the Fallen Phoenix Alliance was.

But when during this strife would the moment of greatest tension and distraction arise?

Naturally, it would be the moment when the final decision is made.

At that time, no one would dare to divert their attention.

For those with designs on the Fallen Phoenix Alliance, wouldn’t this be the ideal opportunity?

But what if this apparent opportunity was actually a tempting trap?

The contest for the position of Grand Master of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance had, at this point, essentially come to an end—it was merely a matter of whether or not it was spoken about.

If spoken about, everything would settle down.

If not... to outsiders, this struggle would seem like an opportunity for those with hidden agendas!

Thinking of this, Su Mo couldn’t help but let out a soft sigh.

If his thoughts are correct, then it must be said that Wei Ruhan... is truly a cunning old fox.

Even when it comes to internal strife, he is able to scheme and use it to consolidate the entire Fallen Phoenix Alliance.

Furthermore, Su Mo suspected that this old fox's plans might extend much further.

As for the other thought that crossed his mind...

With this thought in mind, he looked up at Wei Ziyi.

Wei Ziyi, feeling a bit uneasy under his gaze, instinctively touched her face. "What's wrong?"

"I was pondering..."

Su Mo pondered for a moment, and since Wei Ruhan and the others had never told Wei Ziyi the truth, he shouldn't reveal it carelessly either.

He smiled. "I was pondering what this group of people could be planning, hiding here and plotting against the Fallen Phoenix Alliance."

"Hmm?"

Wei Ziyi was slightly stunned, then after a moment of thought, nodded. "Indeed... this place is far from Sunset City, and there's still some distance to Zhongfu City. It's located between the two cities...

"However, we shouldn't underestimate them. If they had pre-arranged a time, and the hidden individuals arrived around Sunset City simultaneously, they could gather a large number of people."

"But... how many people do you think they have stationed here?

"And how many of them remain unknown to others?"

Su Mo said, "Consider this. When you and I left Sunset City and headed towards East City, we happened upon them while staying at an inn along the way.

"And from what we observed, they made no effort to hide at all.

"Isn't that rather strange?

"Those who wish to act covertly should cover their tracks, be vigilant, and flee at the first sign of trouble.

"But look at them...

"They forcibly took over shops, committed murders, and acted with ruthless cruelty.

"Do these actions suggest people who are trying to hide and plan something significant?"

"Do you think the blade warrior was lying?"

Wei Ziyi lightly raised her eyebrows.

Su Mo smiled. "It's not necessarily that the blade warrior lied..."

Wei Ziyi looked at Su Mo again, her eyes now reflecting confusion. "If the blade warrior didn't lie, then he did receive orders from Ren Xiongfei and is waiting for the opportune moment here?

"But you also mentioned... that their actions don't align with the principles of concealment. If they had a plan, they should be more cautious...

"The blade warrior didn't lie, and Ren Xiongfei did give orders? Then..."

As Wei Ziyi spoke, her brows had furrowed together.

It felt like a knot had tied itself in her mind, and it seemed impossible to unravel.

Turning back, she saw Su Mo smiling at her.

"Are you laughing at me?"

Wei Ziyi was instantly speechless. "Chief Escort Su, if you have advice, please share it directly!"

"Not at all."

Su Mo waved his hand. "We are simply exchanging views. I’m merely suggesting another possibility. Consider it as a point of reference."

"I’m all ears."

Wei Ziyi puffed out her cheeks, feeling that this man seemed honorable on the surface but was actually quite cunning.

Claiming it was just an exchange of opinions, it was clear he had noticed something she hadn’t. He let her speak first to see her flounder.

Su Mo ignored Wei Ziyi’s gaze and thought for a moment before saying:

"Perhaps we should look into Wusheng Hall for this matter.

"Wusheng Hall dominates the west of Eastern Wilderness and is a massive force.

"It has twelve halls under its command, and it’s no exaggeration to say it’s full of experts.

"The disciples within the hall are countless!

"If such a sect had ulterior motives, they would need to act covertly. Why would they rely on someone like that blade warrior?

"Who could be more trustworthy than the people of Wusheng Hall?"

"That’s a good point."

Wei Ziyi said, "But if Wusheng Hall’s people came to the Fallen Phoenix Alliance, it would certainly raise suspicion."

"Do you recall your earlier concern that someone within the Fallen Phoenix Alliance might be colluding with outsiders?"

"Yes."

Wei Ziyi nodded. "Indeed."

"If that’s the case, with an insider helping, what’s there to worry about in terms of remaining hidden? They could spread out around the four cities of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance and act together at a signal?"

Su Mo said softly, "It’s better than dealing with these people, who, with just a little scare, would reveal even the color of their mother’s undergarments."

"That..."

Wei Ziyi pondered for a moment. "Then why do you think Ren Xiongfei is behaving this way?"

"Do you remember how I met your Senior Sister Chu?"

Wei Ziyi nodded; it hadn’t been long since they talked about it, so she naturally hadn’t forgotten. "You encountered the remnants of the Tao Tie Sect on the road, and these people harmed my fellow disciples."

"Do you also remember what I said about the Tao Tie Sect’s purpose in coming to the southwest region?"

"Their purpose..."

Wei Ziyi paused, then after a moment's reflection, said:

"It seems like they had some plot in mind. If it succeeded, they could launch a counterattack on East City..."

As she spoke, her eyes suddenly flickered with light:

"Are you saying that there are people from the East City cult involved in this, pulling strings behind the scenes?"

"It's just a possibility," Su Mo said, raising a finger. "There's something I haven't been able to figure out."

"Just say it, don't keep us in suspense."

Wei Ziyi subconsciously puffed out her cheeks but, feeling that this gesture did not align with her usual demeanor, snorted, rubbed her cheeks, and then glanced at Su Mo irritably.

Su Mo ignored her reaction and continued:

"This is payback for your little game earlier. That time at the Ziyang Escort Agency, Young Miss Wei, you kept us in suspense with one revelation after another...

"Never mind that, let's talk about the real issue.

"Before this, I had always been curious about what the Tao Tie Sect member said.

"I was quite concerned about his true purpose in coming to the southwest.

"Regardless of my feelings, the Purple Sun Sect has a somewhat different relationship with me. Had I not heard about these matters, I might have ignored them, but now that I have, I cannot dismiss them lightly.

"However, the Tao Tie Sect member died too soon, so I didn't have the chance to investigate further.

"After that, I had various trivial matters to deal with on my end, and this matter seemed to fade away without further developments, so I didn't think much more about it.

"But now, Wusheng Hall's recent actions have been unpredictable, leading people to speculate about their true intentions.

"This has also brought back to mind an incident I had nearly forgotten.

"So, I'm thinking that maybe Wusheng Hall's plot against the Fallen Phoenix Alliance isn't real.

"The East City cult's secret infiltration into the southwest to sow discord may not be a fabrication.

"As for their purpose... Do you remember what the Youquan Cult did when they came to the southwest?"

Hearing this, Wei Ziyi's eyebrows knitted together.

"The Youquan Cult schemed against the southwestern martial community, aiming to control most of the southwest via Profound Theory Valley.

"Had they succeeded, the Fallen Phoenix Alliance, the Heavenly Blade School, and even Wusheng Hall would have been in danger!

"Fortunately, you turned the tide, averting the crisis.

"Are you suggesting they are at it again, secretly infiltrating the southwest to incite conflict between the Fallen Phoenix Alliance and Wusheng Hall, aiming to provoke a conflict between them?

"To create an opening for themselves amid the chaos?"

"Who can say?" Su Mo suddenly smiled. "These are merely our speculations."

"Don't give me that!"

Wei Ziyi instinctively stomped her foot and began pacing back and forth:

"That's right, Su Mo... You're absolutely right.

"I did indeed underestimate Wusheng Hall.

"Your explanation, however, seems much more convincing to me.

"The East City cult has been restricted to the eastern side of Tianqu City by the seven major sects for many years.

"All this time, they've been trying to escape this predicament.

"And if what you're saying is true, it brings to mind another matter."

Su Mo looked at her and nodded slightly: "Evernight Valley’s activities along the river."

"Exactly."

Wei Ziyi narrowed her eyes: "Although there are rumors that this was a diversionary tactic by Evernight Valley, I find it hard to fully accept that explanation.

"Despite my extensive contemplation, I couldn't figure out their true intentions.

"But now, hearing what you've said, if this hypothesis holds true...

"If they manage to provoke a conflict between Wusheng Hall and the Fallen Phoenix Alliance, they could covertly transport a significant number of demonic martial artists into the southwest via the river.

"When the time is right, they might even be able to overwhelm both the Fallen Phoenix Alliance and Wusheng Hall simultaneously!

"From then on, they could confront the East City cult on two fronts, creating a pincer movement against the sects of East City."

"Miss Wei, you are indeed astute."

Su Mo clapped in approval.

"..."

Wei Ziyi gave him a fierce glare: "Don't flatter me... I'm just following your reasoning. If not for your keen insight, I wouldn't have thought of any of this."

"...But this is merely our speculation."

Su Mo waved his hand: "Regardless of its correctness, let’s set it aside for now. Even if we're right, things haven't developed to that point yet. For now, the fate of this blade warrior is not crucial. When we pass through that town tomorrow, you draft a letter. I'll have someone send it back to the Fallen Phoenix Alliance and hand it to the Grand Master of the Alliance."

Hearing this, Wei Ziyi nodded: "How should I explain in the letter? Should we detail this speculation fully?"

"Not yet, just provide a general overview of what happened tonight and the matter involving the Tao Tie Sect. I'm sure the Grand Master will have his own judgment."

After all, he is a shrewd old fox.

"Yes, fortunately, we discovered this early. There may still be room for negotiation."

Su Mo neither agreed nor disagreed but thought to himself, if his thoughts about Wei Ruhan were accurate...

Then not only would there be room for negotiation?

Whether this was the doing of the East City cult, or if it was truly just Wusheng Hall trying to take over the Fallen Phoenix Alliance.

If anyone wanted to cause trouble on the Fallen Phoenix Alliance's turf, that cunning old fox... even in his advanced age, would never let anyone with nefarious intentions gain any advantage.