Neither side would yield. Silver Saddle Prince had even made such a ruthless threat, and someone of his status rarely blustered when he spoke.
Their eyes met, and the smell of gunpowder grew ever stronger.
They could not remain silent forever. One side had to make a stance—either compromise or keep applying pressure, and see who cracked first.
"Xingchen, the Prince refuses to hand them over and is even forcing me to release the prisoners in my custody and kneel to them in apology. Never mind whether I agree; Marshal Fan would never agree if he learned of this. I am speaking to the Prince calmly and courteously right now, but if Marshal Fan is alerted, the severity of this matter will change. I sincerely advise you, Prince, to stop while you still can," Hou Guangzu said calmly.
"Some things in this world are beyond your control. It is useless even if you refuse. Royal Army, heed my command—prepare for battle!"
At Silver Saddle Prince's command, the entire army sprang into action. The starships revealed their cannon muzzles, the soldiers drew their weapons, and a grim, murderous fighting spirit erupted.
As an army personally cultivated by the royal clan, its combat strength was in no way inferior to the Aurora God Kingdom's regular forces.
Silver Saddle Prince swept a cold gaze over those around Hou Guangzu and threatened, "I only seek the chief offender. The accomplices will not be pursued. I am taking Hou Guangzu into custody. You had best not interfere. Anyone who aids Hou Guangzu will be treated as equally guilty! Those who do not wish to die, stand down now!"
"Prince, are you resorting to force? I originally intended to reason with you, but unfortunately, you refuse to listen. If you insist on fighting, then the Star