"What is this...?"
Looking at the invitation before him, Qiu Yan narrowed his eyes.
Huang Yan took a deep breath, then answered with an air of righteousness, "A Hero Invitation!"
"Oh? A Hero Invitation?" Qiu Yan repeated the name, a strange smile appearing on his face. "What sort of heroes?"
"Heroes and gallant men from across the realm, naturally!" Facing Qiu Yan, Huang Yan showed not the slightest hint of fear. "Our Heavenly Spirits and Earthly Fiends Stronghold has widely distributed Hero Invitations to martial world elites from all corners of the land, inviting them to join us in resisting the imperial army's invasion."
But Qiu Yan shook his head, disappointment showing on his face. "So they are merely unkempt men of the martial world. I had thought the heroes you spoke of were Great Rui soldiers who defended their homes and nation, held foreign tribes at bay without, and brought peace to the common people within!"
Huang Yan gave a cold laugh. "The imperial soldiers know only how to bully the weak by relying on strength. How can they be called heroes? They are all watchdogs for you nobles!"
"You reckless madman!" Yu Siyan immediately stepped forward and shouted furiously.
However, without Qiu Yan's order, he did not dare take the man down on his own authority.
Hearing this, Huang Yan turned toward the voice, then sneered. "Lord Yu, what imposing official authority! Others may fear a corrupt official like you, but I do not! Besides, while I am speaking with the Marquis, do you have any place to interrupt? Retreat at once!"
Those words truly angered Yu Siyan, the dignified prefect, until his face turned livid. He governed an entire prefecture. Though he had to strictly observe propriety and present a humble appearance before his superiors, officialdom had