News of the Nine-Headed Snake Race
While Bi Fan was still somewhat stunned, Shang Chenzong suddenly fell to his knees. He lowered his head, his voice carrying a grief he could not hide, and said slowly, "I beg you, Brother Bi, for the sake of the Nine-Headed Snake Ancestor, spare my brothers' lives. I, Shang, would gladly die a thousand deaths for this!"
The people behind him froze for a moment, then cried out bitterly, "Big Brother!"
The sudden scene stunned both Bi Fan and Jin Shanshan. They hurried forward to help him up, saying, "Brother Shang, let's talk this through. A man's knees are worth their weight in gold; you mustn't bow to us like this!"
Only then did Shang Chenzong stand. He looked at them and let out a deep sigh, but for a time, he could not say a single word.
Bi Fan said softly, "Brother Shang, although we've never met before, the Nine-Headed Snake Ancestor gave me tremendous help that day."
"Now fate has brought us together again. If you trust me, Brother Bi, believe that there's no need to do this. I won't abandon you."
Jin Shanshan nodded quickly. "That's right, Brother Shang. We may not know each other well, but the Golden Crow Clan and the Nine-Headed Snake Race have always been on good terms. Big Brother is an External Clan Elder of the Golden Crow Clan. He certainly won't leave you all in the lurch!"
Shang Chenzong's eyes brimmed with gratitude. He shouted, "The Nine-Headed Snake Race, heed my order! Join me in paying our respects!"
With that, he bowed deeply to Bi Fan. The people behind him followed without hesitation.
Bi Fan could only laugh helplessly. He accepted half the salute, then quickly stepped forward to help them up. "Let's return to