Nangong Weiyang’s eyes flashed with a trace of surprise as she said, "Lord, you mean... Sword King City perhaps intended for Sword One to fall into demonhood from the very beginning? But what would Sword King City stand to gain from that?"

"I don’t know," Gu Zhan shook his head, "perhaps I’m overthinking it, it’s just my habit to consider the worst possible outcome."

Nangong Weiyang pondered for a moment, then said, "We can deduce a bit. If, as you say, it was Sword King City who guided Sword One onto the fallen path from the start, they must have a scheme targeting the demonized Sword One.

But Sword One was already among the world’s greatest prodigies; demonized or not, the essential difference isn’t large. At most, Sword One’s combat strength may increase after falling, but the drawbacks are immense and control is all but impossible—Sword King City stands to lose more than gain. This possibility doesn’t seem reasonable.

However, there’s still another possibility: that Sword One carries some secret unknown to all. Sword King City’s plotting may not be something we’re privy to. If that’s so, then Sword King City will stop at nothing to seize Sword One, never letting go. So by taking us in, Lord, you’d be in irrevocable enmity with Sword King City."

Gu Zhan waved his hand and said, "That is of little consequence. Now that chaos descends, peaceful coexistence with Sword King City is impossible anyway—enmity or not, it makes no difference. I’m just curious whether Sword One’s fall was truly an accident, or fate."

If accidental, there’s nothing more to it; but if it’s inevitable, then he must harbor a tremendous secret."

Nangong Weiyang glanced at Sword One, then turned and asked, "Lord, do you mean to investigate?"

Gu Zhan nodded and said, "If it’s inevitable, that secret must be deeply tied to the Yellow Court Scripture and Sword One’s unique constitution."

"And both the Yellow Court Scripture and Sword Heart Clarity share one thing in common: falling into demonhood. Sword Heart Clarity, at a single thought, leads into demonhood and draws out the demon nature hidden in the Yellow Court Scripture. This is where the secret lies."

Nangong Weiyang asked softly, "How does Lord plan to proceed?"

Gu Zhan said, "I intend to cultivate the Yellow Court Scripture, then practice a Demon Skill. Using the demonic qi generated, I’ll try to draw out the demon nature within the Yellow Court Scripture and see what happens."

"No!" Nangong Weiyang blurted in alarm, "Lord, demon nature is near impossible to suppress. The slightest error and you’ll fall into the Eternal Hell, lose your mind, and become naught but a killing machine—many even die as their bodies explode, their Dao perishing."

Gu Zhan spoke slowly: "There’s no need to worry. Sword One bears the Sword Heart Clarity constitution—a rarity unseen in a hundred years. As for me, to keep up with him, do you not think I myself possess some extraordinary talent?"

Nangong Weiyang did not press what Gu Zhan’s special talent was, but instead confirmed, "Lord, do you have absolute confidence?"

"I do." Gu Zhan said, "Of all the martial arts in the world, in my hands, they are all the same. Throughout my journey, I’ve cultivated countless techniques—never once has any method clouded my will."

Nangong Weiyang pondered for a while, then said, "Since I am now under Lord’s command, my own role is perfectly clear. No matter what Lord decides, I will only advise from the side and offer counsel, but never sway your decision. If Lord is certain, then I will act accordingly."

Gu Zhan let out a soft laugh and said, "That’s rather different from the ’Female Butcher’ Nangong Weiyang fame paints of you. Word is, your manner is ruthlessly domineering."

Nangong Weiyang replied, "It depends on the man—I see, Lord, you need no one to decide for you."

Gu Zhan smiled faintly, saying, "But neither will I meddle in another’s area of expertise. Your stage, Nangong Weiyang, is in commanding troops. The Cyan Gorge Covenant is now void; here in Yunxi, all provinces will establish Inspectorates, the Embroidered Uniform Guard Zhenfu Bureau, and the military garrisons. Inspectors will naturally fall under me. The Embroidered Uniform Guard Zhenfu Bureau will be given to Protector Yun Wei. As for Marshal of the Military Garrison, officially it will be Xiao Chen, but in truth, it’s in your hands. When the time is right and your identity is revealed, you’ll receive your formal appointment."

Nangong Weiyang was briefly stunned,

She had not imagined Gu Zhan would trust her so. Now, as Yunxi’s structure shifts, each faction will change their layouts drastically, and the Martial World influence will increasingly formalize. The post of Marshal of the Military Garrison thus put her straight into the upper echelon of the Beidou Bang—just below the Gang Leader, in terms of standing; only the Gang Leader ranked higher, analogous to the old Protector role.

Surprised for a moment, Nangong Weiyang did not put on any airs. She could see clearly: Gu Zhan was the sort to employ without doubt, and kill at the first sign of suspicion.

"Thank you for your trust, Lord."

Gu Zhan continued, "As for Sword One, his situation’s unique. Once he recovers, we’ll speak further. Still, given his nature, he’s not suited for administration—a Sword Elder, to hold the fort, suits him best."

Nangong Weiyang nodded.

After a silent pause, Nangong Weiyang said, "When Sword One awakens, I’ll have him hand over the Yellow Court Scripture for you to study, and see if his fall was accident or destiny."

"Good, then let’s do this." Gu Zhan waved his hand. "Your identities are sensitive for now; best not to show yourselves, and I can’t come often either. On this journey to Canglan City, you both must endure some hardship."

"This is already more than enough," Nangong Weiyang said.

Gu Zhan glanced at Nangong Weiyang’s leg and said, "But don’t worry. The Beidou Bang has many wounded on this return trip, so having a physician treat your leg daily will not draw attention. Endure it a bit longer—your leg can be healed. Once we reach Canglan City, you can use as much of the Beidou Bang’s spirit medicine stores as needed. If it’s not enough, the Beidou Bang never lacks gold. Set your mind at ease; you’ll walk again soon enough."