Chapter 224 224: Another Plan (Part 2)
Argon\'s smile widened at Azrael\'s proposal. "Excellent, Tan Zong. You are the perfect candidate for this task. Make sure to be persuasive and assure him that this suggestion comes from a place of neutrality."
Tan Zong bowed respectfully. "I understand, My Lord. I shall handle the matter with utmost discretion."
With the plan in motion, Argon\'s excitement grew. "Once Alix and the Dark Moon Clan are inside the dungeon, we shall discreetly manipulate the environment to heighten the challenge," he said. "They will face trials that push them to their limits, making their battle even more thrilling."
Azrael\'s eyes gleamed with anticipation. "It will be a spectacle worthy of legends," he remarked, his mind already envisioning the grandeur of the event.
"Indeed," Argon agreed. "We will ensure that the dangers they face are not lethal, as we still need their conflict to attract more powerful cultivators and further our tower\'s reputation. However, they will experience enough peril to test their true strengths."
Tan Zong nodded. "I will make arrangements to bring Alix and his alliance here," he assured. "Once they are within the dungeon, I shall subtly guide them to the selected battleground."
Argon\'s voice carried a sense of satisfaction. "Good. We shall remain in the shadows, overseeing the events, but never revealing our involvement. Let them believe they are in complete control of their destinies."
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Meanwhile, deep in a secluded chamber of the manor, his group base, Alix was immersed in his cultivation. His eyes were closed, and his body was enveloped in a cocoon of bright red energy. He had entered a state of profound meditation, seeking to break through to the next level of his cultivation and tap into the deeper mysteries of the world.
Within his mind, Alix felt the ebb and flow of his inner energy, the spiritual essence that connected him to the universe. He navigated through the intricate meridians of his body, seeking to harmonize his energies and achieve a breakthrough.
As he delved deeper into his cultivation, time seemed to lose its meaning. The hours passed like fleeting moments, and Alix\'s connection to the world around him faded away. He was completely focused on the pursuit of strength and enlightenment.
In the midst of his intense cultivation, Alix felt a gentle touch on his shoulder. Startled, he opened his eyes to see Eryx standing beside him, a warm smile on his face.
"Uncle Eryx, what is it?" Alix asked.
Eryx chuckled lightly. "Apologies for the interruption, but you\'ll want to hear this," he said, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "The City Lord, Tan Zong, is looking for you."
Alix\'s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Tan Zong? He rarely makes public appearances. Why would he be looking for me?"
Alix\'s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Tan Zong? He rarely makes public appearances. Why would he be looking for me?"
Eryx shrugged. "I\'m not sure, but he seemed to be in a good mood. He specifically asked for you, though."
Curiosity piqued, Alix quickly rose from his meditation stance and followed Eryx out of the secluded chamber. As they walked through the group base, Alix couldn\'t help but wonder about the reason behind the City Lord\'s visit.
They arrived at a grand hall where Tan Zong awaited them. The City Lord exuded an air of regal authority, and yet his demeanor was welcoming. Alix and Eryx bowed respectfully as they approached.
"Greetings, City Lord Tan Zong," Alix said, his tone respectful but curious. "What brings you here?"
Tan Zong smiled warmly at Alix. "Ah, Alix, I hope I didn\'t interrupt anything important," he said, gesturing for them to rise. "I came to discuss something with you in private, if you don\'t mind."
Alix exchanged a puzzled glance with Eryx but nodded. "Of course, City Lord. I\'m honored that you sought me out."
Tan Zong led them to a more secluded corner of the hall, away from prying eyes and ears. "I have been observing your alliance\'s progress," he began, his voice measured. "And I must say, I\'m impressed with your capabilities and leadership."
Alix\'s surprise deepened, but he remained composed. "Thank you, City Lord. Your words are very kind."
Tan Zong chuckled softly. "Kindness has little to do with it, Alix. You have proven yourself to be a force to be reckoned with, and you have garnered respect from many in the Three Kingdoms."
Alix bowed his head humbly, not used to receiving such direct praise. "I\'m grateful for the support we\'ve received from the Three Kingdoms community."
The City Lord nodded, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Indeed, and that is precisely why I\'ve come to discuss something with you. I believe your upcoming confrontation with the Dark Moon Clan will be a momentous event, one that will attract the attention of many."
Alix frowned, not understanding where this conversation was leading. "That is a possibility, City Lord. We are prepared for the battle ahead."
Tan Zong nodded, his expression serious. "I trust in your preparations, but I also know that the cultivation world can be unpredictable. I propose that the battle between your alliance and the Dark Moon Clan takes place within the tower."
Alix\'s eyes widened at the unexpected proposal. The tower was a vast and mysterious place with different worlds and realms, each offering unique challenges and opportunities. It was a place where cultivators sought to test their strength and hone their skills.
"The tower?" Alix echoed, his mind racing with possibilities. "Why do you suggest that, City Lord?"
Tan Zong\'s gaze was steady, and his tone was measured. "The tower provides a controlled environment where the battles can take place without endangering innocent lives. It is a place revered by cultivators, and having your confrontation there will surely attract the attention of many powerful individuals."
Eryx, who had been silent until now, spoke up, curiosity evident in his voice. "City Lord Tan Zong, why are you taking such an interest in our confrontation with the Dark Moon Clan?"
The City Lord\'s smile was enigmatic. "Consider it a strategic move on my part," he replied. "Your alliance has been gaining influence, and I see potential in supporting you. Having your battle within the tower will not only raise its reputation but also showcase your strength."
He shared Tan Zong\'s concern about the safety of innocent bystanders if their confrontation with the Dark Moon Clan were to take place within the Three Kingdoms.
Alix listened carefully, weighing the proposal in his mind. The tower did indeed offer a controlled environment, and he couldn\'t deny the benefits of keeping innocent bystanders safe. Moreover, it would be an opportunity to showcase their strength to other powerful cultivators and gain more support for their cause.
After a moment of contemplation, Alix met Tan Zong\'s gaze with a determined expression. "I agree with your suggestion, City Lord Tan Zong," he said firmly. "It is of utmost importance to me that innocent lives are protected, and the tower seems like an ideal place for our confrontation with the Dark Moon Clan."
Tan Zong nodded in approval. "I knew you would understand the value of this decision," he said, his eyes shining with respect. "I will make the necessary arrangements to ensure a suitable battleground within the tower."
Alix\'s eyes reflected gratitude towards the City Lord. "Thank you, Lord Tan Zong," he said sincerely. "Your consideration for the safety of innocent people is deeply appreciated. Holding our confrontation within the tower is a wise decision."
The City Lord smiled warmly, his eyes conveying a sense of admiration for Alix\'s sense of responsibility. "You\'re welcome, Alix," he replied. "And don\'t forget, this is also my way of helping you guys. Since I frequently explore the tower, I know of a secluded area within the first and second floors that would be perfect to serve as your alliance bases during the preparation and the confrontation."
Alix\'s curiosity piqued once more, and he leaned forward, intrigued. "A secluded area within the tower? That sounds ideal. Having a secure base will allow us to focus on our strategies without any external disruptions."
Tan Zong nodded. "Exactly. It\'s a place where you can gather your alliance members, devise tactics, and prepare yourselves thoroughly. I will personally guide you to this location once the time is right."
Eryx, who had been listening attentively, chimed in. "That\'s indeed a generous offer, City Lord. We couldn\'t ask for a better place to plan and train for the confrontation."
The City Lord chuckled lightly. "Think nothing of it," he replied humbly. "It is in the best interest of the Three Kingdoms that your alliance thrives and brings stability to the region. Besides, the tower is a fascinating place, and I\'m sure your alliance members will find the experience enriching."
Alix nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude and respect for the City Lord\'s support. "We are truly grateful for your assistance, Lord Tan Zong," he said sincerely. "With your guidance and the advantage of the tower\'s environment, we will make the most of this opportunity to showcase our strength and unity."