As Yuan Ming entered the grand hall, the clamor within came to an abrupt halt, and every gaze turned in perfect unison toward him.
Yuan Ming walked lightly toward the main seat at the center of the hall. His gaze leisurely swept across the gathered Dharma Aspects, and a meaningful smile curled at his lips.
The city lords had come in person this time, and to some extent believed themselves to have been forced here by Yuan Ming. Thus, they no longer bothered with their usual pretenses.
Under Yuan Ming's gaze, some city lords sneered repeatedly, some remained expressionless. Only Long Shan cast him a discreet smile, while the rest wore hostile expressions.
Yuan Ming appeared wholly unconcerned. He sat upright upon the main seat, composed and at ease.
"I will not waste words on needless formalities. The matter for which I have summoned you all today is simple. From this day onward, I formally take control of the nineteen cities of the Ten Thousand Monster Mountain Range. Those present who wish to remain city lords must, aside from the necessary expenses for operating their cities, turn over ninety percent of their profits as taxes." Yuan Ming's voice was calm as still water, yet it carried an authority that brooked no question.
The moment those words fell, they stirred up a thousand waves.
The city lords erupted into an uproar. Voices rose and fell within the hall, as though they might overturn the roof of the council chamber.
Some city lords even released the imposing aura of their Dharma Aspects in fury, attempting to pressure Yuan Ming into retracting his decree.
Even Long Shan could not help frowning amidst the crowd, deeply dissatisfied with Yuan Ming's policy.
"Have you all finished arguing? I have not yet finished speaking." Yuan Ming