The secrets and schemes that had been buried in his heart for years surged forth all at once.
The plot to build an artificial god machine in the secret chamber, Kong Deming's careful plans, Meng Hongchen's decision to enter the game herself, the schemes and power plays hidden in dark corners, where no light could reach, the paths he had painstakingly weighed and chosen in the dead of night, one step at a time...
He had always thought he'd hidden everything flawlessly.
But after they parted in the study that day, Xu Yanli's casual reminder had already seen through every one of his disguises.
"I won't pursue the matter of that machine. But this is the only time. Don't let it happen again."
So he had known everything after all.
From beginning to end, he'd known it all.
He'd simply seen through it without saying a word, showing him mercy for the sake of their brotherly bond.
How could he not have known that Xu Yanli suspected him? He suspected Xu Yanli too, but Xu Yanli had grown too quickly.
There hadn't been time to act, or even to give in to suspicion.
Xu Tianran closed his eyes and drew a deep breath. When he opened them again, all the guilt that had surged within him had faded away, leaving only the calm composure of someone who had weathered the storm.
"Good." He nodded firmly, his voice resolute. "I'll accept this Godhood of Destruction and hold on to it, no matter what."
Xu Yanli inclined his head slightly, then rose and brushed the creases from his robes.
"Then devote yourself to cultivation and break through the level-ninety-nine limit as soon as possible. The God of Ruin will personally test your character. If you don't measure up, this chance at godhood