For a long while.
She took a deep breath, and the killing intent in her eyes slowly receded.
Now was not the time.
The finals were imminent, and Soul Masters across the continent were watching.
If they openly assassinated a contestant in Pope's Palace, Spirit Hall's reputation would be ruined.
Besides, that plan... still needed time.
"Very well."
Bibi Dong leaned back in her chair again, resuming that lofty, commanding posture.
"Since you refuse a toast only to drink a forfeit, we'll meet on the arena."
"I hope that when the time comes, your bones will be as hard as your mouths."
"See them out."
Han Yuchen wiped his mouth and rose to his feet.
"Thanks for the hospitality."
"The food was good. The atmosphere was a bit stifling, though. Next time, I suggest picking somewhere with music."
With that, he led Leng Yuebai away with an unhurried swagger.
Only after their figures vanished beyond the doors—
Crack!
The crystal wineglass in Bibi Dong's hand was crushed into powder.
Red wine trickled down her pale fingers, a startling sight.
"Your Holiness..."
Yue Guan cautiously stepped forward.
"Should I arrange for someone to, tonight..."
He made a throat-slitting gesture.
"Idiot!"
Bibi Dong shot him a cold glance.
"That woman has been on guard against you all along. Unless those old bastards from the Elder Hall act, who could possibly keep her there?"
"Besides, I sensed it..."
Bibi Dong stared at her still-trembling fingers, a shadow passing through her eyes.
"Inside that Han Yuchen, there is a power that even I fear."
"That is... the aura of a god."
After leaving Pope's Palace.
The night breeze was slightly cool.
Han Yuchen let out a long breath.
Showing off had felt great just now, but the person across from him had been