Now that they had sat down to talk, Lord Bei wanted to settle Sifang City's problem first. Given Long Feng's identity, status, and martial prowess, a single word from him would surely be carried out. There would be no saying one thing to their faces and another behind their backs.
At his words, Long Feng's formerly cheerful smile faded. After considering for a moment, he said,
"I did indeed have a hand in Sifang City's affairs. I merely thought that if there was a chance to lend a hand, then I would lend one. After all, your Human Clan and my Dragon Clan share deep ties. It was not for any unspeakable purpose. Lord Bei, you have misunderstood me."
Yet he still had no intention of lowering his banners and beating his drums. No one knew his true purpose, but this coat of whitewash could indeed fool many people. It could never fool Lord Bei and the other two.
Lord Bei's expression turned even colder. Ignoring everything else, he said,
"My Sifang City has stood upon the Arctic Ice Plains for a hundred years. Though every step has been perilous and danger lurked everywhere, we still made it through and remained standing. We naturally have means to protect ourselves; we have no need for the Dragon Clan's shelter.
Long Feng, let us throw open the skylight and speak plainly. What will it take for you to give up on Sifang City?"
Long Feng chuckled, absently turning a small dagger over in his hand before saying,
"What is there in Sifang City worth coveting? I merely planted a few spies. Do you think no one else, no other great clan, has done the same? Lord Bei, your prejudice against me seems rather deep."
Meng Zhao spoke at this point.
"I shall