Ari said, "This sinner does indeed have that thought, but I dare not claim certain victory."
Young Master Xu threw back his head and laughed. "You're too modest. You've survived countless battles, and you're the foremost among the three hundred Sin Army soldiers of Huai Xi. Your cultivation, Ari, can be called the strongest beneath the Yin Venerables. If you say you can't win, that's far too modest."
"Marquis Liu Lie of Ice Sea—it was you!"
Ambassador Song cried out in shock.
Ari remained hidden beneath his cloak. He gave Ambassador Song a slight bow, then bent at the waist toward Young Master Xu. "I hope Young Master will grant my request."
Young Master Xu smiled. "Since you're certain that lot won't be able to capture the thief, you'll have your chance to act. Why are you in such a hurry? I'd very much like to see whether you or Ambassador Song is the better judge."
"If I surrender, I wonder whether Old Man Su can truly guarantee my life."
Worry clouded Xu Yi's face.
The high-cheekboned old man hurriedly said, "Of course I can. How could Ambassador Song's word be false? Besides, a noble young master has vouched for you."
"A noble young master?"
Xu Yi feigned confusion.
The high-cheekboned old man said, "He's a nobleman of considerable standing. Ambassador Song obeys his every word."
Xu Yi said, "If that's the case, then I'll surrender. Please ask Old Man Su to bring that nobleman here. I still have some pride, after all. Even if I surrender, I'll surrender only to the most esteemed person. I hope Old Man Su will grant me this small wish."
The high-cheekboned old man was hesitating when a Baleful Intent blade slashed through the air toward Xu Yi. Waves of force rippled outward,