Bibi Dong's fury: three elders and an army of twenty thousand Soul Masters, gone just like that?

Han Yu rose and walked over to the enormous map, his gaze settling on Spirit City.

"Though the Worship Hall and the Pope Palace struggle for power, to the outside world, they both belong to the Spirit Hall Empire.

"With Golden Crocodile and the other two dead and Jialing Pass lost, the gateway between Heaven Dou's northern lands and the southern heartland stands wide open.

"My army can march straight in at any moment and drive a blade into Spirit City's throat.

"Even if Bibi Dong secretly rejoices, she must still face the threat of her empire collapsing."

A sharp light flashed in Gu Rong's eyes.

"That woman's Rakshasa God Trial has been causing quite a stir, too.

"Our spies previously reported purple-black baleful energy soaring into the sky from deep within the Pope Palace. I'm afraid she's close to taking that final step as well."

"Then we must not give them a moment to catch their breath."

Han Yu turned, sweeping his imposing gaze over everyone.

"Convey my decree."

Everyone in the hall grew solemn and bowed in unison.

"We await your command!"

"First, order the main legions in the rear to enter Jialing Pass immediately and take over its defenses.

"Split up those fourteen thousand-odd surrendered soldiers into separate groups. Remove the middle- and high-ranking officers and escort them back to Heaven Dou Imperial City for interrogation and screening.

"Assign the remaining rank-and-file soldiers to the supply and garrison battalions. At the slightest sign of trouble, execute them without mercy."

"I obey your decree!" The vanguard commander accepted his orders and withdrew.

Han Yu looked at Gu Rong. "Grandfather."

"Here." Gu Rong cupped his hands.

"Have someone pack up the weapons and broken battle armor of Golden Crocodile, Qian Jun, and Jiang Mo and send them to Spirit