A Last-Ditch Struggle: Xue Beng Named Crown Prince! The Emperor Personally Marches to War! Xue Xing Heads to Dou Po! Clear Sky Sect's Plans!

Inside the Heaven Dou Empire Imperial Palace's Imperial Study, candlelight flickered as an atmosphere heavy as solid steel hung in the air.

Xue Ye sat on the Dragon Throne, his face pale but his gaze resolute. His dragon robe was soaked with cold sweat, yet he still forced his hunched back straight.

Below him, Xue Beng wore the ceremonial robes of a crown prince, having shed his former foppishness.

His eyes held a calmness and determination far beyond his years.

Just half an hour ago, Xue Ye had formally issued an edict naming Xue Beng the Crown Prince of the Heaven Dou Empire, placing him in charge of the court.

"Father, Spirit Hall is filled with wolfish ambition, Dou Po Academy is unfathomable, and experts from the Soul Beast Ranking are watching from all sides. Are we... truly going to declare war?"

Xue Beng's voice trembled slightly, but it held even more determination.

He knew this was the Heaven Dou Empire's last shred of dignity. There was no room left to retreat.

Xue Ye slowly raised a hand, stopping him. His voice was hoarse yet forceful:

"Xue Beng, the Heaven Dou Empire has endured for a thousand years. How can it become another's vassal in my hands?

"Spirit Hall has gone too far. Qian Renxue infiltrated us for years and killed my loyal officials, and now they covet Continental Hegemony—this emperor shall personally march to war!"

"Your Majesty! You must not!" Marshal Gelong hurriedly advised. "Your health is poor, and leading the campaign yourself is far too dangerous. Let this subject lead the army instead!"

"My mind is made up!" Xue Ye suddenly slammed his hand onto the desk and rose to his feet, a mad resolve flashing through his eyes.

"I will let the world know that the Heaven