Chapter 60: Conspiracy (2) (2/2)

This was also the reason why Cao Xiong had so often tried to turn his disciple, Leng s.h.i.+zhi, into the prime disciple, but this progress was not so smooth.

With this result, Cao Xiong became disconsolate, and his magnificent aspiration was difficult to achieve. Under these conditions, with Dong Shenglong intentionally acting friendly towards him, Cao Xiong inadvertently became closer to Dong Shenglong; his previous hostility towards Dong Shenglong had dissipated by a lot.

Later, Dong Shenglong had implied many times that he and his backing would be able to a.s.sist Cao Xiong in climbing to the sect master’s position of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect!

With such a tempting offer from Dong Shenglong, it would be strange if Cao Xiong was not interested! Cao Xiong knew the people that were behind Dong Shenglong were powerful, but he also knew what Dong Shenglong wanted.

If he truly joined Dong Shenglong, Cao Xiong knew that him becoming the sect master was not a difficult matter. The problem was, once he joined Dong Shenglong, he had to put in great effort afterward. The backing of the Heavenly Jewel Kingdom was not easily bestowed upon, and this deal would symbolize his betrayal of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect and the ancestors.

Even though Cao Xiong truly coveted the sect master’s seat and was tempted by Dong Shenglong’s offer, but as an elder of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect and a disciple that grew up here, he ultimately couldn’t cross this bottom line in his heart. In the end, for him, to betray the sect and the ancestors would be something that will torture his conscience!

Of course, Dong Shenglong was not in a rush either. The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had declined, and the items of this sect, one day, would fall into his hands; he had enough patience. Naturally, if Cao Xiong would join him, then it would be even better.

Facing Dong Shenglong, Cao Xiong was just drinking without replying while Dong Shenglong maintained his smile. It was a smile on the outside, but inside, it wasn’t.

Finally, Cao Xiong placed down the bowl in his hand and said: “The sect master is not present, so I do not need to worry.”

Dong Shenglong, with his pretentious smile: “Brother Cao is an elder of the sect, and you have truly contributed to it with your blood and courage. Brother Cao should be more aware of the current situation of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.”

Cao Xiong was waiting for Dong Shenglong to say these words. He looked at Dong Shenglong: “My mind is dark; please give me a few pointers.”

Dong Shenglong, still maintaining a smile, replied: “Brother Cao, even though the Nine Saint Demon Gate is here because of the marital matter; however, have you thought about this? I’m afraid that they are only here because of a certain thing in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.”

“Is that so?” Cao Xiong did not answer directly. In reality, he knew clearly what he meant in his heart.

Dong Shenglong did not care for Cao Xiong’s att.i.tude. He was afraid of the fish not biting the bait. As long as he took the bait, everything would be easy. He wouldn’t be afraid of Cao Xiong’s hesitation anymore.

Dong Shenglong sincerely asked: “Has Brother Cao thought more about this? The truth is, in the end, the only thing that can protect the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect is still the Heavenly Jewel Kingdom. The Nine Saint Demon Gate is far out in the other corner of the world; they only want the things that belong to them. As for whether the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect’s living or dying, I’m afraid they do not care at all.”

“The marriage between the two sects, I don’t see it as a bad thing entirely.” Cao Xiong still replied in a patient manner.

Dong Shenglong let out a laugh and then spoke words with hidden meanings: “Of course, from your point of view, the marriage pact between the two sects is a happy thing, worthy of celebration. However, the marriage of the two sects; from my perspective, if your disciple Leng s.h.i.+zhi could marry princess Li, then it would be ten parts perfect.”

“Unfortunately, my disciple is not the prime disciple!”

“This marital pact; it doesn’t necessarily have to be the prime disciple, right?”

The fish had taken the bait, so Dong Shenglong smiled. Cao Xiong, in the end, couldn’t escape his palm, and his confidence rose; he then, with a beaming smile, said: “The two sects have the pact. However, what if something unexpectedly happens to the prime disciple, or what if your prime disciple commits a grave sin?”

Cao Xiong’s eyes narrowed as he asked: “What is the meaning behind brother Dong’s words?”

Dong Shenglong answered while smiling: “Brother Cao, there are some people that have achieved a few accomplishments, and they couldn’t help but become arrogant and disrespectful toward their seniors. They then committed wrongful acts against the sect’s rules? Tell me I am right? For example, if your prime disciple, Li Qiye, commits a crime, then the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect would have to deal with it fairly. This type of horse that causes trouble to its herd; if not dealt with, it would cause detrimental harm to the sect.”

Cao Xiong’s eyes were focused, but he did not say anything for a long time.

Finally, Dong Shenglong, still staring at Cao Xiong, slowly opened his mouth: “Brother Cao, since you came to confide in this little brother, this little brother will naturally help a friend; even if it would risk my life. If brother Cao has any ideas, just go and do it. Even if the sky falls down, isn’t this little brother still here to console brother Cao?”

“Brother Dong is so affectionate and helpful; this Cao is very appreciative.” In the end, Cao Xiong stood up and clasped his hands together before taking his leave.

After Cao Xiong’s departure, Dong Shenglong smiled, and he slowly said: “As long as you have stepped on this boat, I’m not afraid that you won’t betray the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. Cao Xiong, ah Cao Xiong; if you want to fight with that old Gu, you definitely will request my help!” [2]

[1] There are ghosts and demons in this world, but this phrase still has the meaning of surprise in the narrative.

[2] Gu is the first elder's name.