Tang Lan's casual remark had promised every person present a soul bone. How could that not leave them utterly shaken and unable to believe it?
Chen Jing took several deep breaths before barely suppressing the surging turmoil in his heart. His voice carried a faint, nearly imperceptible dryness as he spoke.
"Ta... Tang Sect Master, do... do you truly mean this? Soul bones are so precious. We may have made some small contributions, but... how could we dare accept such a generous reward?"
After all, he was the commander of an army, his will firm and resolute. Beyond his shock, his first thought was whether this "gift" was too weighty, and whether there was some deeper meaning behind it.
Du Yang hurriedly echoed him, his voice trembling with a mixture of alarm and excitement.
"That's right, Tang Sect Master! Our victory over Dongyang City was entirely thanks to your divine might and the full support of Tang Sect's experts. We imperial soldiers merely did our duty. We truly... truly do not deserve a treasure like a soul bone!"
Tang Lan looked at the two men, who were so stunned they had nearly lost their composure, then glanced at his own subordinates, who were surprised as well but comparatively calmer. The smile on his face did not change as he explained evenly.
"General Chen, Commander Du, there is no need for modesty, nor any need for doubt. Since Tang Lan has spoken, my word stands. These soul bones were not obtained out of thin air."
He sat up slightly and continued in a steady voice.
"First, since Tang Sect's founding, we have explored many ancient ruins and perilous lands. Over the years, our accumulated gains have included several soul bones. Second, Tang Sect's commercial network spans the continent, and our intelligence