Executed According to Law

"Lie'er, this is a crime of grave disrespect. If us old men were to swallow our pride and plead, then for our sake—and for the sake of your cousin Ao Bing—the Jade Emperor would not pursue this too harshly. But if you step forward and bear this guilt yourself, the outcome will be different. You may very well face severe punishment."

Ao Guang spoke anxiously, his concern plain to see.

A gentle voice suddenly entered Ao Lie's ears, yet it did not seem abrupt.

That was because the voice belonged to someone he knew incomparably well—his cousin, Ao Bing.

Ao Bing's voice sounded by his ear. "Ao Lie, listen to me. What you are about to hear is top secret. You must never tell anyone else."

Ao Lie subconsciously pursed his lips and gave a slight nod.

"You must bear this matter yourself. Go to heaven and accept the blame, clearing the Four Seas Dragon Clan of any connection to it."

"Don't worry. Haotian will not punish you too severely. You are one of the protagonists of the Tribulation, and you will be of great use in their plans. You need not worry about your own safety, but you must make everyone believe that you have severed all ties with the Four Seas. This matter cannot implicate the Four Seas."

"Trust me."

Ao Lie listened to every word Ao Bing said without missing a single one. Then, his expression resolute, he looked at Ao Run.

"Father, this was your son's fault. It has nothing to do with the West Sea, nor with the Four Seas. Please put righteousness before family and bind your son before taking him to see Jade Emperor Your Majesty to plead guilty."

"Lie'er, you..."

"Father, trust me. I will be fine. This is good for me,