Proactive Self-Destruction, Impregnable

Xushiki's blow struck straight at the heart.

The implication was: [I can overlook your failure of the mission, but you must explain exactly how you got out.]

The entrance to [Dragon Palace City], the [Dragon Palace Well], was not something that could be opened whenever one wished.

If he had used some improper means to get out, then he should not blame Xushiki for punishing him.

As soon as this question was raised, the other elders all turned to look at Natsume.

After all, in their understanding, the [Dragon Palace Well] was the only route in and out of [Dragon Palace City]!

How had Natsume gotten out?

It was indeed rather strange.

Naturally, Natsume could not possibly confess that he had left through the [Progenitor Blood Vessel].

And that he had even entered the [Divine Tree Incubation Center].

That place was undoubtedly one of the Otsutsuki Royal Family's deepest secrets. For all he knew, Xushiki might have been involved as well.

If he revealed all of that, Natsume was not afraid of their retaliation, but they would certainly probe him like mad.

That would only hasten his exposure, making it more trouble than it was worth...

Still, judging by the situation, if he did not reveal something real, he probably would not be able to fool this pack of "wolves," Xushiki included.

So, Natsume simply dropped a bombshell:

"It's very simple."

"I made a deal with the Royal Family and borrowed their [Dragon Palace Key] to get out."

For a moment, the elders present erupted into an uproar.

Elder Ling Shi, in particular, shot to his feet at once.

Seizing the opportunity, he accused Natsume:

"Nisshiki!"

"You dared betray the Council and secretly collude with the Royal Family!"

"You're courting death!"

Natsume glanced at him blandly and replied without haste: