Liu Jingtian was no reckless fool. He had heard of Xuan Zhuang's plan, which Xuan Zhuang claimed was foolproof, and agreed with his analysis. There truly shouldn't have been any unexpected complications.
However, he was cautious by nature. Until matters were set in stone, he always left himself room to maneuver.
He had fully prepared for Xuan Zhuang's success, but he had also prepared for the situation to collapse and for them to settle everything in a decisive battle.
Taking action was naturally the worst option. After all, Xu Yi's identity was no secret, and one wrong move could spark a conflict between the Western Continent and the Eastern Continent.
However, with Xuan Zhuang's plan having failed, they were already in a position where backing down was impossible. Taking action was now the least bad choice.
As long as they captured Xu Yi, there would still be room to turn things around. After all, the whole point of Xuan Zhuang's plan was to get his hands on Xu Yi's Starry Sky Ring, which held the treasure their Sage wanted.
Once that was done, the bureaucrats could sort out whatever diplomatic mess followed.
Having already resolved to act, Liu Jingtian struck. Outside, mysterious waves surged as a barrier formed on its own.
Though they were outside the city, the offices of the various government departments were clustered nearby. Even the slightest disturbance would inevitably set the rumor mill spinning, and that was the last thing Liu Jingtian wanted.
As soon as Liu Jingtian launched his attack, a clear ripple spread from a brush. In an instant, everyone present felt the air grow sluggish, as if their bodies were surrounded by thick, sticky gelatin.
"The Spirit Judge Brush!"
Xuan Zhuang was horrified. He hadn't expected Liu Jingtian to use his trump card