Lin Xiao panted, a final flare of desperate hope bursting from his eyes. He struggled to his knees and bowed low. "Every word I've said is true! I beg you, Immortal Emperors, save my life! Restore my Dao Foundation! I, Lin Xiao, will lead the charge, serve you like a horse or hound, and join you in killing that hypocrite Fang Chen!"
Lightning flashed in Thunder Punishment Immortal Emperor's eyes. He stared at Lin Xiao for a long while, then bared his teeth in a savage grin. "Good! Since you know which way the wind blows and have rendered great service, the Five Clans will not mistreat you. Once we've flattened Heavenly Chasm Gorge and slain Fang Chen, we'll marshal the strength of all five clans to find a way to rebuild your Dao Foundation!"
Star Whisper nodded slightly. "A drop of essence from my Elf Race's Tree of Life may stabilize your injuries for now and slow the collapse of your Dao Foundation."
Nether Remains Immortal Emperor said coldly, "Granted."
It was a first sign of acceptance—and a promise.
Lin Xiao trembled with excitement and kowtowed again and again. "Thank you, Immortal Emperors! Thank you! I, Lin Xiao, swear to serve you to the death!"
Star Vault Immortal Emperor tapped his fingers against an armrest carved from Void Adamant. His gaze remained calm as he sent a mental message to the other Immortal Emperors present. "The intelligence he's provided is detailed and corroborated by several sources. But one matter still troubles me."
Blood Devourer Immortal Emperor raised an eyebrow and replied mentally, "What is it, Daoist Friend Star Vault?"
"Lin Xiao himself."
Star Vault Immortal Emperor's gaze swept over the others. "As we know, he came from the Human Race's Five Elements Sect and was Gu Daozi's personal disciple.