The astonishing outcome of the battle at Crouching Dragon Mountain, along with news that Imperial Court Mountain had issued another Martial Deity decree, swept across the entire Purple Moon Continent in less than half a day.
In streets and alleys, in sects and kingdoms, wherever Martial Artists gathered, discussion raged without end.
Everyone was talking about Li Yun, the lord of Crouching Dragon City who had dared to slay seven Martial Emperors and openly defy Imperial Court Mountain.
Some marveled at his courage. To challenge the power that ruled the continent—he was surely the first in a thousand years.
Others admired his strength. He had slain seven Martial Emperors in one battle without a scratch on himself. His combat power was terrifying.
But even more people were baffled, unable to make sense of Imperial Court Mountain's actions.
Imperial Court Mountain had a Martial Deity and power that reached the heavens. Li Yun had dealt it a stinging humiliation, leaving it furious.
By all rights, it should have mobilized every force at once and flattened Crouching Dragon Mountain.
Yet Yelü Martial Emperor had merely issued another decree, giving Li Yun a month's grace instead of sending troops immediately.
The response was so unusual that countless people could make neither head nor tail of it.
As the debate continued, a few old foxes well versed in the ways of power finally stepped forward to explain the mystery.
"You don't understand what Imperial Court Mountain wants. Simply killing Li Yun was never the point."
"Imperial Court Mountain has ruled the continent for years. Its authority is etched into everyone's bones, but Li Yun's battle has shaken its reputation."
"If it sends troops to kill him outright, it will look like it's using power to bully him. That would only make it seem afraid