Ch. 261This was going too far
Qian Xunji agreed that Spirit Hall would intervene against the continent’s evil menaces, but demanded sweeping authority over Soul Masters in return. His first two conditions provoked outrage and left the assembled rulers and sect leaders recognizing how Spirit Hall could use them to control and weaken their forces.
- Xue Qinghe, the Star Luo envoy, and Yu Yuanzhen offered thanks and compensation after Qian Xunji said Spirit Hall could intervene.
- Qian Xunji demanded that all Soul Masters register with Spirit Hall and that Spirit Hall alone assess and certify their ranks.
- Yu Yuanzhen objected that the registration rules interfered with sect affairs, but Qian Xunji argued that they were necessary to detect evil arts and artifacts.
- Qian Xunji required Soul Masters above rank thirty to perform annual public service assigned and assessed by Spirit Hall, with penalties for failing to serve.
- Yu Yuanzhen protested that his disciples were not laborers, but Qian Xunji framed public service as their duty to protect the continent.
- Ning Fengzhi recognized that Spirit Hall could use task assignments and assessments to drain other powers’ strength and punish dissent.