The powerful true qi made everyone in the hall's eardrums ache. Even Wang Xin and the others stared at Guo Jing in shock.
Guo Jing clasped his hands and said, "Brothers, I, Guo Jing, have guarded Xiangyang only so that the people of Great Song may be spared slaughter by the invaders. It was never for glory, wealth, or rank. The size of an official post means nothing to me. Just like all of you, did you not come here to lend your strength because your blood still runs hot, for the peace of Great Song? How could something as trivial as an official rank divide us? Do not harm our harmony over such a petty matter."
After speaking, he turned to the eunuch Wang Xin. "My lord, I have already had wine and dishes prepared to welcome you and wash away the dust of your journey. Please come with me."
Only then did the eunuch Wang Xin nod in satisfaction. He swept a cold glance over the martial artists in the hall, snorted, and turned to leave.
Of course, Guo Jing's formidable inner strength had also intimidated him.
After offering his thanks, Guo Jing finally persuaded the martial artists to disperse. Huang Rong walked to his side, concern written across her face. "Brother Jing, that eunuch likely has ill intentions. Beggar Clan disciples sent word that the imperial court intends to make peace with the invaders. I fear there may be a scheme behind this."
"If soldiers come, we will block them; if water comes, we will dam it with earth. I'll first sound him out. Rong'er, I'll leave this place to you."
"Mm."
Half an hour later, Guo Jing returned with a dark expression.
"How did it go, Brother Jing?"
Guo Jing took a deep breath. "Rong'er, your