The boy's expression shifted slightly when Li Hao saw through his identity at a glance.
He stole a look at the young man with the serene air, finding it hard to reconcile him with the fearsome figure he had seen outside the pass earlier.
But he knew that the slightest misstep now would cost him his life.
"Greetings, Young General."
He bowed respectfully before saying with some nervousness:
"I was sent here on orders. During your earlier sweep outside the pass, you destroyed the palaces and cave dwellings of three Demon Kings. They asked us at Tianji Hall to inquire how you intend to compensate them, Young General."
"Compensate them?"
Li Hao looked at him in surprise. "What compensation do they want?"
"They hope you will apologize and promise not to trespass again, so that well water and river water never mingle. In return, they can guarantee that Heaven's Gate Pass remains peaceful, allowing you to complete your three years of guarding it without incident."
The boy spoke respectfully, but his voice trembled slightly.
Li Hao narrowed his eyes a little and chuckled. "You even know I'm guarding this place for three years. It seems you know quite a bit about me. In that case, tell them their compensation is right here. They can have whatever they want, but they'll have to come collect it themselves."
"Well..."
The boy looked troubled. "Young General, we're here to negotiate. Please don't get angry. You can't stay at Heaven's Gate Pass forever, can you? I advise you to reconsider."
"Hmm?"
Li Hao looked at him, his gaze suddenly bearing the force of ten thousand crushing weights. The pressure terrified the boy, sending feathers sprouting from his skin as he nearly revealed his true form.
His body bent as well, forcing him to his