Chapter 53: "The Venomous Strategist" Jiang Xiqi, I Have a Plan...

"Fellow Lingxiao, your words are admirable," said the serene beauty, her gaze settling on Lingtian. "Personally, I am most interested in the Way of the Sword. I wonder, Fellow Tianling, would you care to share your insights?"

As she spoke, everyone present sensed that despite her courteous phrasing, her focus was entirely on Lingtian. The earlier words were mere formalities.

Lingxiao was taken aback, looking at Lingtian in confusion. What was it about him that captivated the Goddess Jiang so deeply?

Chu Xuan clenched her delicate hand, her heart fluttering with unease, as if someone intended to steal what she cherished most.

For a moment, all eyes fell upon Lingtian—bewildered, envious, jealous—emotions varied, but all converged on him.

"Of course," Lingtian replied after a brief pause, nodding in assent. He was curious to see what Jiang Xiqi's intentions truly were, and whether he might help arrange something between Lingxiao and her. After all, Lingxiao was of the Ling family; if Lingtian could find him a suitable Dao companion, it would be keeping things within the family.

As Lingtian passed Lingxiao, Lingxiao opened his mouth, wanting to speak, yet no words came. Ah, nothing had even begun yet; what right did he have to say anything? With that thought, Lingxiao stepped down from the platform.

"Interesting," Lingtian thought as he ascended, raising an eyebrow. His double pupils could not penetrate her secrets—a rarity. It was as if fate itself veiled her, impossible to unravel.

He nodded in greeting, resigned, then began to expound on his understanding of the Way of the Sword.

"Most people believe that the Way of the Sword means entering the Dao through the sword, focusing on the weapon itself. This is not wrong, but as one progresses, one's perspective must change. The sword is merely a vessel; if one sees it as the manifestation of sword mastery, one is trapped by appearances. If there is a sword in one's heart, there is a sword in one's hand; but a sword in hand does not guarantee a sword in heart. Refine it within, manifest it outward—such is the true Way of the Sword."

Lingtian had little knowledge of sword insights; he simply knew that after completing a simple task, he gained the highest attainment in swordsmanship. He spoke a few of his idle musings, expecting nothing, but the hall fell utterly silent.

At first, listeners thought he jested, but as he continued, their expressions grew solemn; some, upon deep contemplation, felt their path in the Way of the Sword suddenly clarify.

"I've grasped it!" someone exclaimed.

A surge of breaking through realms echoed throughout.

Chu Xuan's cold, clear gaze flashed with brilliance. Born with a sword heart, she had just conquered her inner demon, and now felt an unprecedented clarity. Upon hearing Lingtian's words, she was instantly enlightened, ascending to the pinnacle!

The Way of the Sword is divided into four realms: the first is the Mortal Sword; the second, entering the halls; the third, reaching the summit; and the fourth, unity of sword and self. Each step is arduous, a barrier to countless sword cultivators.

"I've grasped it as well!"

Suddenly, many voices declared their breakthroughs.

Lingtian tugged at the corner of his mouth. Was this for real? He had only spoken casually, and they truly advanced?

Lingxiao regarded Lingtian, pondering deeply, and could not help but marvel at his profound understanding of the sword. He now yearned even more for that duel. The methods of nurturing the sword—just how powerful might they be?

"Thank you, Fellow Tianling, for imparting your wisdom."

Once the wave of breakthroughs subsided, those who had advanced wore smiles and bowed sincerely to Lingtian.

As it should be.

"Ahem, you're too kind," Lingtian replied, somewhat disappointed. Had he known his words would have such effect, he would have charged a fee. What a pity.

Just as he was about to step off the platform, a voice called from behind:

"Fellow Tianling, I have some questions. Would you mind discussing them privately?"

"No," Lingtian responded, his brow slightly furrowed. He did not know what this woman was plotting, but seeing Lingxiao and the others' startled expressions, he chose to refuse. Jiang Xiqi gave him an odd, dangerous feeling—far too perilous to get involved.

Why should he simply go off to talk with her as she wished? Did she think he was at her beck and call?

"Is that so? ‘Tianling’ is a rather distinctive name, isn’t it…"

Jiang Xiqi smiled, emphasizing his name, then said no more.

"If the Goddess has need, I would be glad to assist," Lingtian quickly replied before she could finish. Hearing her mention his name, he sensed an ominous premonition.

Fortunately, no one else suspected anything unusual in her words, believing instead that ‘Tianling’ had some hidden meaning.

Chu Xuan watched as the two headed into the Celestial Pavilion's private chambers. She could not stop Lingtian, as he had agreed himself. She only hoped nothing untoward would occur.

"Fellow Tianling, are you curious what I wished to say?" Jiang Xiqi spoke calmly after setting up a barrier.

Lingtian watched her closely, hoping she would not utter those words, but fate is never kind:

"If you reverse the name, it becomes quite interesting!"

"Indeed, very interesting," Lingtian replied, meeting her gaze directly with a light smile, betraying no panic.

Tianling, Lingtian!

It was clear to him now: the woman before him already knew his true identity. Yet she did not expose him—what game was she playing?

Should he silence her?

He quietly summoned the Imperial Banner, keeping it ready behind him.

"No need for tension. The Celestial Pavilion is aloof from worldly affairs. What can be shared, will be; what cannot, shall never be spoken," Jiang Xiqi shook her head, as if she knew what Lingtian intended.

"Heh…" Lingtian chuckled dryly, then asked, "May I ask what you summoned me for…?"

"I wish to propose an alliance—to conspire together in grand matters!" Jiang Xiqi no longer hid her intent, her aura shifting dramatically.

"A grand alliance? It seems you still do not trust me…" Lingtian sneered, shaking his head. Fine words, yet her aura shielded all investigation—so much for partnership.

Jiang Xiqi waved her hand, her aura dissipating, and at that moment, a voice echoed in Lingtian's mind:

[Divine Schemer Jiang Xiqi, master of calculation, rejected by Heaven, defies fate, orchestrates the great war of the three clans through prescience and manipulation. Once exposed, she became a hunted outcast, seeking a comeback—how can she succeed without a strategist?]

[Quest triggered: Reversal.]

[Defy public opinion; recruit Jiang Xiqi as your strategist.]

[Reward: Master of Influence (enhances persuasiveness, especially among strategists; triggers when others express willingness to serve you).]

Sweat broke out on Lingtian's brow. Damn it, this woman was ruthless! To reverse her fate, she would risk instigating a war among three clans.

If that war ever truly broke out, how many lives would be lost!

A century from now, no one would dare take Jiang Xiqi in. This system was truly devious—was it trying to roast him alive?

This was no strategist, but an outright poisoner!

No wonder the reward was tailored to controlling her, lest she turn on him!

He could only sigh inwardly.

Quietly, Lingtian abandoned any thought of matchmaking Lingxiao and Jiang Xiqi. No, he must never let them become involved. To be honest, Lingtian now felt uneasy even looking at Jiang Xiqi.

He never intended, at the very least, he never intended to provoke a war among three clans. He simply wished to show off a little.

"Fellow Tianling, you look a bit unwell. I have a plan…" Jiang Xiqi noticed Lingtian's odd expression and was about to launch into her scheme when he interrupted:

"No matter. The matter you mentioned…"

"I can predict anything. I can grant you the richest opportunities. In return, you must assist me in certain matters…" Jiang Xiqi fixed her beautiful gaze on Lingtian, revealing her intentions. She had largely deduced Lingtian's origins, but the karma was too vast to probe deeply. Fortunately, her earlier test succeeded, so she could now discuss her plans openly.

Without question, Lingtian was the ideal choice—whether for his talent or his background.

"So then, you would be my strategist?" Lingtian did not immediately agree, posing the question lightly.

A century from now, if Jiang Xiqi was in such a desperate state, Lingtian might hesitate; but now, he would not.

"You could say so," Jiang Xiqi nodded, yet as soon as she spoke, her brow furrowed and her heart skipped a beat. Such a feeling—how strange!

[Quest complete.]

[Reward: Master of Influence (enhances persuasiveness, especially among strategists; triggers when others express willingness to serve you).]

"Oh dear, my back itches a bit. Could you scratch it for me?" Lingtian's eyes sparkled as he noticed the bright "Strategist" words above Jiang Xiqi's head, prompting a test.

Jiang Xiqi, without hesitation, stepped forward, reached into the back of Lingtian's robe, and scratched his back.

How—how could she do that?

Her mind reeled in confusion. Why was she so obedient to Lingtian's words, as if under some irresistible compulsion?

They had only just met! She behaved so carelessly already; this was utterly unlike her normal conduct.

"Much better. You have a deft touch," Lingtian said with a smile while Jiang Xiqi was still bewildered, thanking her before continuing, "As for your proposal, I agree."

Now that his suspicions were confirmed, there was no need to worry. If Jiang Xiqi ever tried to make him do something outrageous, he could simply refuse—or even persuade her to change her mind for the sake of Dao realm peace. Selfish, perhaps, but it was for the safety of his family.

He did not deny it. He was not a noble soul; it was just that chaos in the Dao realm would implicate his kin.

"You agree? Excellent!" Delighted, Jiang Xiqi forgot her earlier embarrassment, considering it merely a means to her goal.

"By the way, there is indeed something I need your help with…" Since their agreement was reached, Lingtian did not stand on ceremony.

"What is it?" Jiang Xiqi asked without hesitation, seeing it as a test from Lingtian.

"Could you help Lingxiao find a Dao companion?" Lingtian glanced at Lingxiao's task; there was no requirement for him to complete it himself, so this was a loophole.

Jiang Xiqi smiled slyly, an idea forming: "I have a plan. We can find someone who admires him, administer a love potion, let them consummate the union, and use his sense of guilt to bind them together as Dao companions…"