The rogue cultivators instantly split into two camps. Those who had not been appointed to office were simply there for the spectacle, thrilled by the prospect of a good show. They secretly hoped Lei Chiyan, that madman, would make a scene, and that his outburst might overturn the earlier appointments. Clearly, that was unrealistic.
But if he could at least let them vent their anger, that would be enough.
The other camp consisted of those like Kong Xiang who had obtained substantive positions. They gathered around Xu Yi and scolded him, spreading word of the dreadful consequences of disturbing the Scorching Thunder Drum, though none of them could hide the worry on their faces.
The reason was obvious: Lei Chiyan was certain to meet a grim end, but it was equally clear that this matter would blow up.
If it led to further uncontrollable consequences and dragged them in as well, it would hardly be worth it.
Xu Yi paid them no mind, acting as if everyone else were drunk and only he was sober. Kong Xiang and the others were so incensed that they eventually stopped cursing.
It was plain enough: getting worked up over an idiot could only end with you becoming just as much of an idiot—and then getting beaten by that idiot using his extensive experience at being one.
Amid the clamor, a man in a yellow robe suddenly came flying over, followed by two armored guards.
Holding a sheet of yellow paper, the man looked down from midair. "Who struck the Scorching Thunder Drum? Step forward."
Xu Yi strode forward. The man in yellow swept his hand, and the two guards descended, taking up positions on either side of Xu Yi and escorting him between them.
Xu Yi did not resist, but Kong Xiang could