"Greetings, Your Majesty."
Ning Fengzhi gave a slight bow in salute.
Xuan Hao also cupped his fists, though his gesture was far from standard. Still, it was enough to show respect. "Greetings, Your Majesty."
"Hahahaha! Sect Master Ning, Sword Douluo, no need for such formalities."
Emperor Xue Ye laughed heartily and strode forward, but his gaze immediately settled on Xuan Hao. His eyes were filled with scrutiny and approval, with none of the fury from yesterday in the Imperial Study, when he had seemed ready to tear Xuan Hao to pieces.
"This must be Young Friend Xuan Hao, I presume?"
Emperor Xue Ye looked Xuan Hao over, nodding in praise. "Truly, heroes emerge in their youth! To possess such cultivation and bearing at your age, no wonder even Qing He sings your praises."
Emperor Xue Ye did not mention Xue Beng kneeling or Dugu Yan being tied up. It was as though neither incident had ever happened.
That level of composure, that thickness of skin—he really was emperor material.
"Your Majesty flatters me."
Xuan Hao responded with a smile. "I was just lucky, a blind cat that happened to find a dead rat."
He had come today to collect something. One did not slap a smiling face, and since the Old Emperor was being so courteous, he was naturally willing to play along.
"Young Friend is too modest."
Emperor Xue Ye smiled and wasted no more words. Turning, he walked toward the enormous Stone Gate. "Since I promised Young Friend, I naturally will not go back on my word. Aside from several designated sacrificial items, Young Friend may choose any three treasures from the Imperial Treasury."
After saying that, Emperor Xue Ye walked alone to a groove beside the Stone Gate. He took out a strangely shaped dragon jade seal