Meng Zhao raised a brow and shook his head.
"Lu Hou'er, do you know the assessment I have of you?"
Lu Hou'er shook his head, bracing himself against the ground with both hands, his lips trembling.
"I do not."
"Actually, you are a clever man, so I have always regarded you as a capable general who could stand on his own.
"Unfortunately, clever people are indeed exceptional, but they often possess flaws and shortcomings that only clever people have.
"For instance, being tripped up by one's own cleverness. Wouldn't you agree?"
Lu Hou'er's arms went limp, and he nearly collapsed face-first onto the ground. However, he quickly rallied himself and hastily said,
"This subordinate knows his error and admits his guilt, but I had my own difficulties. Beitang Xing is the Twelfth Prince, a member of the Imperial Clan. I had absolutely no intention of betraying the Dragon King. I only wished to stall for time and temporarily deceive Beitang Xing."
"Hmph. Of course I know you never intended to betray me. Otherwise, do you think you would still have the chance to speak with me?"
Meng Zhao's words were like sweet rain falling from the heavens, making Lu Hou'er feel utterly relieved. The slackened Essence, Qi, and Spirit of his entire body instantly recovered.
This meant that, at the very least, his crime did not warrant death. With that, there was hope.
"The Dragon King's eyes are as keen as torches. This subordinate indeed would not dare harbor any rebellious intent. Once I had deceived Beitang Xing, I would have found an opportunity to report this matter to the Dragon King. There is not a single false word in this."
Meng Zhao neither confirmed nor denied this. He knew perfectly well that the moment he had discovered the matter,