Wherever there are people, there is a worldly society.
If Ning Zhuo were to seek help from Zhu Fenxiang, it would likely displease Situ Xing and disrupt a previously arranged plan.
This plan involved utilizing the strength of Shen Xi, Lin Jinglong, and Situ Xing’s group to help achieve more tasks in the Feiyun Conference.
The Xingyun Trial was just an opportunity to shine; the real stage is the Feiyun Conference to come.
By then, relying solely on one’s own strength might lead to success, but leveraging others’ help and mutual assistance would undoubtedly raise the ceiling of success much higher.
"This decision needs to be made carefully." Ning Zhuo’s expression was grave.
Although Mengye Tiger’s spiritual nature was on the brink of collapse, urgently needing resolution, Ning Zhuo remained calm without letting panic distort his actions.
He immediately sent a Flying Message to Chen San, asking him to gather relevant intelligence.
With sufficient funding and Chen San’s full effort, Ning Zhuo soon had a clear understanding of the cultivators and forces related to the Divine Summoning Technique within and around the Wanxiang Sect’s Main Mountain Gate.
After gaining this understanding, Ning Zhuo realized Zhu Fenxiang’s value was even greater.
"In that case, there’s no need to cling onto the connection with Situ Xing."
Ning Zhuo rubbed his brow.
He had never intended to offend Situ Xing, but because of Shen Xi earlier, he had kept his distance from Situ Xing. Now, because of Mengye Tiger, seeking Zhu Fenxiang would only make things more tense between him and Situ Xing.
"I might even be kicked out of this group."
Despite this, Ning Zhuo was determined to reach out to Zhu Fenxiang.
"I’m an outsider."
"In Flying Cloud Country, I am naturally neutral and can establish connections with any outsiders or forces."
"Situ Xing and the Situ Family are strong, but not to the point where they overly restrain me."
If I were truly cautious, I wouldn’t have such an attitude towards Pi Fujie and Ban Ji.
The connection to Situ Xing and Shen Xi was just one of Ning Zhuo’s entry points. There were many similar entry points.
For example, the Evil Slaying Hall, the Confucian Cultivators group, and the reliable friends Meng Yaoyin mentioned in her letter.
These Ning Zhuo had not engaged with deeply.
"No need!"
"It’s not time yet."
"I should remain flexible and adaptive, respond to circumstances, and eventually make a decision."
"Until then, I need to patiently wait for the right timing."
It’s still far from the time for Ning Zhuo to make his real move.
He maintained a flexible mindset, striving to enhance his value for easier future decisions.
When Ning Zhuo approached Zhu Fenxiang, she was healing her wounds.
The quiet room was filled with the strong scent of medicine and the smoke of incense.
Zhu Fenxiang sat cross-legged on a cushion, surrounded by a mist of mana like incense smoke.
Tiny star-like glimmers remained in her body’s meridians. Each star felt like a miniature cold blade, causing deep pain and chill within her bones.
Her right chest to her arm was wrapped in thick white bandages, with bloodstains intermittently seeping through.
"Ning Zhuo?" She opened her eyes, a hint of doubt flashing in them.
A handmaid respectfully handed Ning Zhuo’s introductory letter to her.
She naturally knew of Ning Zhuo.
Zhu Fenxiang had deliberately challenged Situ Xing this time, and had thoroughly investigated his information.
Therefore, she also understood Ning Zhuo had a close relationship with Shen Xi, and both were part of Situ Xing’s small group.
"What does this person come for now?"
Zhu Fenxiang’s fingertip unconsciously rubbed the edge of the introductory letter, as she made a decision: "Let him in."
A moment later, the door to the quiet room opened, and Ning Zhuo stepped inside.
Her scrutinizing gaze fell on Ning Zhuo. Although she had long gathered intelligence on Ning Zhuo’s appearance, meeting him face-to-face was still a first.
She observed Ning Zhuo dressed in a spotless white attire, with a calm gaze, steady steps, and a larger head, exuding confidence and vigor.
Ning Zhuo also evaluated Zhu Fenxiang.
Zhu Fenxiang sat quietly cross-legged; due to blood loss and other reasons, her complexion was pale, her eyes dim. But the residual battle spirit constantly showcased her resilience and calm.
"Young Master Ning Zhuo." Zhu Fenxiang spoke first, her voice slightly hoarse due to her injuries.
"You are associated with Situ Xing, seeking me now; has he directed you to do this, or do you have your own insights?"
Ning Zhuo immediately sensed Zhu Fenxiang’s sharpness, immediately judging Ning Zhuo as an enemy, showing her strong character.
Ning Zhuo smiled slightly.
He did not rush to clear his relationship with Situ Xing, as that would seem insecure and be detrimental to the upcoming negotiation.
"Miss Zhu Fenxiang, I have already heard from Brother Shen Xi about your combat prowess."
"Your recent thunderous methods overwhelmed Situ Xing and broke his All Heaven Star Formation. Such achievements are truly admirable."
He slightly bowed with composure: "I am here to congratulate my senior sister."
"However, despite the victory, the costs paid by my senior sister are as heavy as those of Situ Xing, a pyrrhic victory one could say."
Saying this, he glanced over Zhu Fenxiang’s blood-stained bandages and pale face.
Ning Zhuo’s voice suddenly rose: "I am here to offer Miss Zhu Fenxiang my help, to extend the fruits of this victory, turning a pyrrhic victory into a major victory!"
"Oh?" Zhu Fenxiang’s interest piqued further, "Please, Young Master Ning, elaborate."
Ning Zhuo nodded, holding his finger pointing to himself: "Miss Zhu Fenxiang, just imagine. If I were to publicly announce leaving Situ Xing’s group at this time to join forces with you, what would outsiders think?"
Zhu Fenxiang slightly raised her eyebrows.
She was fully aware that this would have a huge impact!