Li Xiao nodded and cupped his fists. "Then you have my thanks, everyone.
"If you capture any remnants of the Cai Family, please send them all to the Golden Blade Sect. I would be deeply grateful."
With that, he was about to turn and leave when the mistress of the Hatred-Severing Palace, who had remained silent in the seat of honor, suddenly spoke.
Her voice was cool and clear.
"Fellow Daoist Li, hasn't the Cai Family Old Ancestor already died?
"Why must you still exterminate every last member of the Cai Family? Why go to such lengths to hunt down their remnants? Surely there was no such deep-seated hatred between you and them."
Her questions sounded casual, yet they struck straight at the heart of the matter.
Li Xiao's expression shifted slightly. His smile faded a little, and his gaze grew still.
He turned around.
"Palace Mistress, this is my business, and I would rather not explain.
"If the Hatred-Severing Palace lends a hand, I will owe you a favor. As for anything else, you would do well to concern yourselves less, lest you bring disaster upon yourselves."
He spoke mildly, but the chill in his words was unmistakable.
The atmosphere in the hall abruptly turned cold, and several elders' expressions changed at once.
Anyone could hear the warning in those words.
But Li Xiao's fearsome reputation preceded him. Though displeased, none of them dared stand up and object.
For a moment, an awkward silence settled over the hall.
Fortunately, the grand elder reacted swiftly. He hurriedly set down his bowl of wine and laughed, smoothing things over.
"The palace mistress was merely curious. She has always had an inquisitive nature. But if you would rather not explain, Fellow Daoist Li, we understand. We will help you!
"I'll mobilize everyone