Zhang Yuanqing stared into the Imperial Preceptor's glittering golden eyes and said loudly:
"At this time of crisis, I wish to pray for your protection, Imperial Preceptor—for the Southern Dynasty, and for the common people."
His voice was loud enough to drown out the clamor and carry clearly to the officials and commoners present.
Pairs of eyes could not help turning toward the Imperial Preceptor.
Xie Lingxi, mingling among the crowd, called out in a crisp voice, "Imperial Preceptor, please protect His Majesty—for the people and for the court."
She did not know why Brother Yuanshi had entered the dragon's den alone, but she knew all she needed to do was cooperate with Brother Yuanshi unconditionally.
Wang Beiwang, Red Chicken Bro, Little Round, and the Stop-Killing Palace Lord were equally willing to cooperate without question.
Driven by the enthusiastic lead of the team, the commoners began to echo them, begging the Imperial Preceptor to protect the tyrant emperor whom they usually cursed through gritted teeth whenever he was mentioned.
The Imperial Preceptor fell silent for a long while before slowly saying, "Granted!"
He transformed into a streak of golden light and vanished into the tower.
The corners of Zhang Yuanqing's mouth lifted as he looked at Zheng Wenhan and smiled. "Prime Minister Zheng, I will handle state affairs in the Heavenly Secrets Tower. I'll leave the Imperial City Directorate's internal investigation for spies to you. If you fail to uncover the spy colluding with the Northern Dynasty within three days, bring me your head!"
He was conveying to Zheng Wenhan: I'm buying time.
The conflict between them was irreconcilable, a fight to the death. But rebellion was, after all, a grave taboo. With the plan for this Heaven Sacrifice ceremony having failed, Zheng Wenhan would certainly choose to deliberate further