Councilor Lan had revealed his intentions in private as early as the day he set out on his mission. Now that Origin Xia had, in substance, ceased to exist, he did not consider this betrayal. Thus, he felt not the slightest psychological burden in offering his allegiance.
Feng Tingzhi looked at Councilor Lan and said pleasantly, "Since Councilor Lan is willing to join us, we shall naturally treat you well. Please come over."
Councilor Lan bowed once more. After straightening, he walked over to stand on Celestial Xia's side. Turning back, he addressed the people of the Two Halls. "Everyone, Origin Xia has fallen. Why should we continue to suffer beneath its restraints? Origin Xia betrayed us first—it was not we who betrayed Origin Xia."
"Councilor Lan is right."
The moment he finished speaking, someone immediately echoed him.
The crowd looked over, only to discover in surprise that the speaker was Councilor Duan, who had always been at odds with Councilor Lan.
Not a trace of awkwardness showed on Councilor Duan's face. He stepped out from the crowd and walked directly into the Celestial Xia Array. Bowing to the Celestial Xia cultivators, he said, "Since Origin Xia has betrayed us, Duan is willing to join your side."
Councilor Huang cursed under his breath. He had originally intended to preserve a little dignity and wait a while longer. Once Celestial Xia urged him again, he would go with the flow and join them. Yet Councilor Duan had proved so utterly shameless that he had simply rushed over on his own.
He had clearly made arrangements with Celestial Xia first. Why should this man get ahead of him?
Moreover, Councilor Duan's move would certainly spur more people to follow. If he delayed any longer, even the value of his surrender would be