Sure enough.
After a moment of silence.
Under everyone's gaze, Qi Canghai rose from the fur-covered armchair. His spotless face changed from that of a kindly, smiling Buddha to one of cold indifference.
"Since no one was killed, no rules were broken. Qin Nanchun was simply outmatched and misjudged his opponent; he had no one else to blame.
"As for the Grand Elder's proposal—
"There was no rule in this contest forbidding anyone from concealing their strength, so the punishment against Hall Master Wu is overruled."
Hall Master Wu...
That change in how Qi Canghai addressed him made it clear he had already accepted Wu Dao as one of his own. His every word carried a note of protection.
The matter was settled.
Even if Elder Qin kept making a scene, he couldn't change the outcome.
"Qi Canghai... you... fine, fine! So we're not your uncles anymore, is that it?"
Hearing Qi Canghai's indisputable verdict, Elder Qin was so furious that the corners of his eyes nearly split open.
In his rage, he even lost his senses and called Qi Canghai by name in front of everyone, making Qi Canghai's expression turn thoroughly unpleasant.
Seeing that the Council of Elders had adopted an attitude of looking down their noses and minding their own business, Elder Qin knew he had no choice but to swallow this loss. He shot Wu Dao a venomous look, then hurried away with the unconscious Qin Nanchun in his arms.
"Um... I concede."
An awkward voice rang out. It belonged to the number nine Cocoon-Breaking contestant in Wu Dao's group.
After seeing what Wu Dao had just done, he knew he couldn't withstand him. Better to concede now than go up there and make a fool of himself.
The people nearby didn't laugh at him.
After