Huangfu Qing’s expression was conflicted. “Why… why would it ever come to such a choice? The venerable and you aren’t in conflict…”0

Zhao Changhe found her hesitation oddly endearing and could not help but smile. “No conflict? Do you really think so? From the moment we met, didn’t you know the venerable intended for you to win me over?”0

Huangfu Qing huffed. “Winning you over isn’t the same as spying on you! What are you thinking?”0

“The very need to win me over implies our interests aren’t completely aligned. We’re partners, not true allies.” Zhao Changhe sighed. “Qing’er, the cult calls me the Fire Pig of Shi, but the truth is, neither of the venerables ever treated me as a subordinate. My role has always been a matter of cooperation. From the very beginning, they knew I didn’t share their faith.”0

Huangfu Qing fell silent. Zhao Changhe spoke the truth. Both sides were well aware of the nature of his position. Black Tortoise had never seen him as a direct subordinate. And she, as Vermillion Bird, had never truly regarded him as a member of the cult. It was an unspoken reality—a delicate balance sustained by mutual understanding...0