Published: March 7, 2025
CHAPTER 285: He’s Dead, I Killed Him
Mo Tianyun's words still held considerable weight; the majority of people shared a common view: since Ao Xieyun proposed it, how could he suggest it without confidence in himself?
They immediately began to clamor.
"This young master believes this is feasible!" Li Xiong Tu shouted, sweeping his gaze across the crowd. "In my opinion, the various alliances don't even need to send representatives. Instead, the young masters from each noble family can take the stage one by one to compete personally! The ultimate victor can claim this Flame Sun Blade! How about that?"
The attendees were all the first young masters from prominent noble families, direct heirs! Each one looked down on others, refusing to admit inferiority.
Li Xiong Tu’s words immediately sparked widespread agreement.
"Good!"
Ao Xieyun smiled wryly and said, "Alright, but this matter should be done sooner rather than later. No one can guarantee that this sword will still be here by morning if we take it back... Why not compete right here and now?"
"Brother Ao is right," Tu Qianhao quickly expressed his support. Li Xiong Tu strode out confidently, addressing the soldiers still gathered outside. "You all, get a few people to clear the area and escort your emperor and empress out. We’re taking this venue!"
Upon hearing such a brazen tone, the crowd couldn’t help but roll their eyes.
Taking this venue? Buddy, this venue you speak of is the palace of a nation...
However, all the young masters felt exhilarated: What of the palace? If he says it’s taken, then it’s taken!
Since ancient times, no one has ever taken a palace, right? Hey, brothers, this is a first!
The leading general turned crimson with fury, nearly bursting with indignation: it had always been the officials taking from the commoners. When had a palace ever been requisitioned by others?
In his rage, he was about to give the order for a fierce attack!
"General Xiao, let’s do as this young master says!" A refined voice interjected. Diwu Qingrou, riding a horse, slowly approached. "Bring the emperor and his people out."
After speaking, he cupped his hands to Ao Xieyun and Mo Tianyun, smiling as he added, "This time, our Great Zhao will yield! The palace can be temporarily used by you all, but afterward, you young masters must give me Diwu Qingrou an explanation!"
Li Xiong Tu snorted coldly, his beard quivering as he replied casually, "And if we refuse to give that explanation...?"
Diwu Qingrou narrowed his eyes, stating, "Then... even the various noble families of Zhong San Tian must offer me an explanation!"
His words were emphatic, carrying an undercurrent of a murderous intent.
Seeing Li Xiong Tu, who was known for being unruly, on the verge of a standoff with Diwu Qingrou, Ao Xieyun quickly stepped in to mediate: "Lord Xiang, you’re exaggerating. Borrowing the palace this time is truly unavoidable. After this matter, regardless of what happens, we will certainly give you an explanation."
As he spoke, he shot a fierce glare at Li Xiong Tu, whispering, "Fool! If this escalates, that sword will become Great Zhao’s!"
"Uh, uh, uh..." Li Xiong Tu repeated in agreement, feeling tension in his mind. He clasped his hands and, without thinking, blurted out, "Lord Xiang, you truly are far-sighted, wise and martial, elegant and handsome, that… such a figure, captivating, unparalleled…." Only to be pulled back by Ao Xieyun by his ear, both exasperated and amused.
This guy had just been cursing moments ago and now was lavishing empty praise upon him.
Even Diwu Qingrou, with his good manners, showed signs of agitation on his face. With a swift flick of his sleeve, he declared, "So be it." Turning around, he shouted, "General Xiao, carry out the orders! What are you waiting for?"
After lingering, Diwu Qingrou felt that if he stayed any longer, he would either be killed by Chu King of Hell or driven mad by Li Xiong Tu...
Great Zhao was organizing the retreat on one side, while discussions on how to split the spoils officially started on the other. The palace was engulfed in flames, having fundamentally declared itself in ruins...