Night Talk

The night was quiet. Only when the breeze drifted past did a faint rustling sound arise.

The pavilion was brightly lit on all sides, illuminating everything down to the finest detail.

The four of them arrived before the pavilion together, and the guards let them through automatically.

George stepped forward and gave a slight bow. "Greetings, Father."

At that moment, Dole, Aixi, and Yuno stepped forward as well. They went down on one knee, placed a hand over their chests, and performed a standard salute.

"Greetings, Emperor Yale."

Yale looked at Dole, then at Aixi, and finally at Yuno. His expression was solemn and faintly contemplative, revealing no discernible emotion.

"Mhm, rise. I called you here today merely because I wished to take a look. As expected, all of you are geniuses among geniuses. Niece Aixi, you are no slouch either. Advancing to Level Six at thirty-two—my cousin truly raised a fine daughter."

Aixi's face flushed slightly. She gave a small bow and said, "My little ability is nothing. It is all thanks to my family's support and Brother George's gifts."

George froze. Why had she dragged him into this?

The Emperor Yale knew of the transaction between them, as well as its exact details. He nodded faintly. "Resources produce different results in different hands. Even if some things are given to another person, they may not necessarily amount to anything. Just like my third son—hmph, forty years old already, and only a Level Six warrior."

George nearly covered his face and wept. Why was Father talking about him again? If he had not been busy fighting for the throne and lacked time to cultivate, then with his talent, he would not have fallen behind his imperial brothers.

Aixi was stunned as she looked at George. It was hard to