The Man’s Decree

Right after Yuven left, a palace guard burst into the grand hall.

“King Lucian, the leader of Emerald Cauldron Sect, Hosen Holt, requests an audience.”

“Hosen? He just left recently. What could bring him here at this ungodly hour?” Lucian asked with a puzzled expression.

Despite his confusion, Lucian knew he had to show Hosen the deserved respect. After all, Emerald Cauldron Sect had recently formed an alliance with his city, and Hosen had crafted them a cornucopia of precious pills.

“Admit Mr. Holt,” Lucian ordered.

Soon, Hosen was led into the grand hall. Lucian's gaze fell upon his ragged appearance, a stark contrast to the ornate surroundings, and his astonishment slipped into his tone. “Mr. Holt, what happened to you? You look... disheveled.”

Hosen's clothes, a patchwork of tatters and stains, bore the grim signature of a fight. He had fled in haste, with no time to change into more fitting attire.

“King Lucian, please... help me,” Hosen implored.

“Easy, Mr. Holt. Let's take this slowly,” Lucian replied while gesturing for Hosen to take a seat.

After sipping water and gathering his breath, Hosen recounted the upheaval in Emerald Cauldron Sect.

Lucian listened, his astonishment intensifying when he learned of the treacherous coup by Ebenez, who'd long played the loyal subordinate but had secretly colluded with Demonic Cultivators.

“Mr. Holt, as regrettable as your situation is, the dispute within Emerald Cauldron Sect is internal. Is it my place to interfere?” Lucian asked after a moment of contemplation.

His apparent hesitation was a tactic to coax Hosen into offering more advantageous terms.

“King Lucian, even though Emerald Cauldron Sect and Norwal City are currently bound by an alliance, it was only signed between you and me. Will Ebenez honor that agreement? If he allies with Demonic Cultivators and abandons your city, I fear your future will be fraught with worry. The rise of Demonic Cultivators will shrink your realm of survival, and they won't hesitate to snatch away your resources. But if you help me reclaim Emerald Cauldron Sect, we will swear exclusive service to your city. All our high-grade pills will be yours without reservation,” Hosen reasoned.

Hosen understood the rules of Ethereal Realm, where self-interest ruled over friendships. No one would offer assistance without benefits. Thus, he made this enticing promise to regain his sect.

Lucian's brows furrowed as he weighed his options. “Very well,” he finally said. “I can assist in reclaiming your sect. It is not a difficult task, but we must wait a few days. In the meantime, stay here, where you will be safe.”