A Jin Family disciple cried out in alarm:
"Elder!"
Jin Long wiped the blood from the corner of his lips and waved a hand.
"Don't make a fuss. Help me back."
"Yes."
The Jin Family disciples immediately helped Jin Long away. Even though the guards of the City Lord's Mansion saw it, they continued standing at attention without so much as a sideways glance. Once Jin Long and his group had left, one of them spoke.
"That was a Jin Family elder. Looks like he hit a wall with the City Lord."
"Definitely. Otherwise, who could injure Jin Long, a Nine Heavens Profound Immortal?"
"He had it coming! He was far too arrogant before."
"That's enough. This matter stays between us. Don't go spouting nonsense outside."
"Don't worry, Brother. I know where to draw the line."
After exchanging a few brief words, the two resumed their duties.
Meanwhile, Wanqi You and his group, who had remained at the City Lord's Mansion, were much more composed. He first cupped his hands toward City Lord Kuang Mei in thanks, then said to Wanqi Wei:
"Wei'er, take Little Friend Ranxi aside first. I have some matters to discuss with the City Lord alone."
"Yes, Elder."
Wanqi Wei then led the clan members and Yunxi out of the council hall first.
Only after City Lord Kuang Mei and Vice City Lord Xue Ling were the only ones left in the hall did Wanqi You say:
"City Lord, I presume Vice City Lord Xue told you some of my speculations yesterday. Though the Wanqi Family has been unable to find evidence, I trust the City Lord has the means to uncover clues. Please be on guard against the Jin Family."
Kuang Mei nodded to show that he understood.
Wanqi You said nothing further. Some matters