Celestial City.
A streak of black-and-white light pierced the heavens.
One moment, it was at the far end of the horizon; the next, it appeared above Celestial City, then descended into the city and landed before the marquis's residence.
"Greetings, Your Highness!"
"We pay our respects, Your Highness!"
"..."
At the entrance to the marquis's residence, the gatekeepers hurriedly bowed to Jiang Ning at the sight.
Jiang Ning nodded slightly.
"Your Highness, the marquis is waiting in the front hall!" the head gatekeeper said, then added, "Allow this humble servant to lead the way!"
Jiang Ning nodded again.
Then he stepped through the gates, rounded the spirit screen, and crossed the front courtyard and corridors.
Jiang Ning appeared before the council hall.
Inside, Zhou Sheng and Zhong Yue sat upright, while Zhong Ling sat in a chair off to the side, her gaze repeatedly drifting toward the door.
The moment they saw Jiang Ning, all three rose almost simultaneously.
"Your Highness!" Zhou Sheng hurried forward, his eyes full of expectation and apprehension. "How did it go?"
"I've met the two Heavenly Kings at Broken Dragon Ridge. They agreed to withdraw their troops and never set foot in Five Peaks Prefecture again for the rest of their lives," Jiang Ning said.
"They're withdrawing just like that?" Zhou Sheng froze, and Zhong Yue was stunned as well.
"Yes!" Jiang Ning nodded, swept his gaze around, and walked toward Zhong Ling.
He picked up the tea bowl on the table beside Zhong Ling and drained it in one gulp, moistening his throat.
Then he continued, "Those two Heavenly Kings knew what was good for them. After a few words from me, they realized their strength fell short of mine and naturally withdrew. It didn't take much talking."
"Your Highness truly is a divine