The Ethereal Domains

Chapter 592: Three Things!

Three Things! . . .

Feng Monarch, a legendary master dan maker known for crafting supreme dan beads, had achieved extraordinary feats. He was a force to be reckoned with, capable of quelling disturbances single-handedly, confronting numerous assassins, and even taking on multiple superior cultivators. His contributions were considerable: donating seventy billion to the military and putting up a five-hundred-billion bounty reward. He had single-handedly established new rules in the martial world.

Despite his remarkable achievements, he bore an average appearance—of average height, weight, and skin tone. He seemed neither too young nor too old, blending seamlessly into a crowd.

The king expressed his contentment, remarking, "Finally, I am fortunate to meet the world-shocking Feng Monarch."

Unfazed by Feng Monarch's appearance, the king didn't expect him to possess any specific look. After all, those who accomplished great deeds didn't necessarily bear striking appearances. He didn't find it surprising that Feng Monarch appeared so unassuming.

Feng Monarch responded, "Your majesty, I didn't go out to greet you, and I hope you understand why. There are many assassins waiting to kill me, and my presence would undoubtedly attract trouble. If anything were to happen to you as a result, it would be my fault."

While the king accepted this explanation, he harbored doubts. He pondered, [His words belie his true capabilities. He's faced countless superior cultivators and handled them casually. Now, in his own domain, he claims to be concerned about my safety? I don't entirely believe that.]

Nonetheless, the king maintained a friendly demeanor and said, "Not at all, Feng Monarch. Your thoughtfulness and thoroughness are qualities we should all aspire to."

As they exchanged smiles, they took their seats not as king and subject but as host and guest. Feng Monarch prepared the tea himself, introducing each piece of equipment, cups, and tea leaves. He added many unrelated comments, and the king listened with patience, displaying no signs of annoyance.

After the tea preparation was complete, a somewhat awkward silence ensued. Neither party initiated conversation, as though they were locked in a battle of politeness, each waiting for the other to speak first.

The king, eager to maintain the upper hand, eventually broke the silence, stating, "I've come with several matters to discuss."

With the conversation initiated, Feng Monarch sat up straight and responded, "Please, your majesty."

The king proceeded with a solemn tone, "First, I wish to express my gratitude for your generous donation of seventy billion, Feng Monarch. It was a great act of kindness that significantly alleviated our kingdom's financial woes. Your support was invaluable to our war efforts. Your high merit and prospects are evident, as you have spared countless lives by releasing this heavy financial burden. For that, I am truly thankful."

Feng Monarch modestly smiled and replied, "I am humbled by your praise, your majesty. It was a small effort, and the true credit belongs to the Kingdom of Chen. They enabled this contribution, not me."

The king's countenance appeared slightly tense, but he spoke courteously, saying, "Second, your creation of a five hundred billion price reward warrant posed a significant threat to the other two kingdoms, greatly aiding the Kingdom of Chen. I shall always remember this."

Cha Eun Xiao waved his hand and offered a warm smile. "Your praise is too generous, your majesty. My primary motive was to exact revenge. I couldn't sit idly by when there was a bounty on my head. My actions were not intended as a favor to the Kingdom of Chen. I don't believe I should be credited for it."

The king responded sincerely, "Regardless of your motivation, Feng Monarch, it has greatly benefited my kingdom. You have indeed made a significant contribution."

His expression shifted, and he spoke in hushed tones, "The third matter... In truth... Feng Monarch, how did you uncover the unforgivable crime of my son?"

Cha Eun Xiao raised his gaze and fixed it upon the king, perceiving sorrow, regret, and pain in the monarch's eyes, but no trace of hatred.

Shaking his head, Cha Eun Xiao maintained a smile. "Why, your majesty? Why not speak your mind openly? I must admit, I'm having trouble comprehending your words."

The king shook his head, offering a wistful smile. "Feng Monarch, there's no need for obfuscation in this matter."

Cha Eun Xiao continued shaking his head. "Your majesty, the charges were punishable by death. How could I be involved in such acts?"

The king replied, "Ling-Bao Hall stands above all other entities in the world. How could you possibly meet such a fate? Feng Monarch, those who dare to act must also be prepared to assume responsibility. Second Prince's family was utterly wiped out, and the perpetrator must wield immense power and lead a formidable group of individuals. These individuals displayed a ruthless and highly disciplined approach, indicating they were well-trained assassins. It was evidently an assassination team with strict organization."

"In the world, only three powers possess the capability to lead such an assassination group: Boundless Lake, the House of the Chaotic Storms, and Ling-Bao Hall."

The king spoke with solemnity, "The House of the Chaotic Storms wields significant influence, but they would never target members of the royal clan. Their actions are usually concealed in shadow, and thus, it cannot be them."

"Boundless Lake is another possibility. However, the Kingdom of Chen has only a few golden-label assassins, and they have been significantly weakened by prior conflicts. Moreover, given what I know about Boundless Lake and the information I've gathered regarding my son, an attack by Boundless Lake might not be a guaranteed victory. Even if they succeeded, they would have incurred substantial losses. Boundless Saint would never make such a move."

"Therefore, all signs point to the last formidable power—Ling-Bao Hall."