He turned and left, his steps light, clearly brimming with confidence in this mission.
Hua Wuxin watched his retreating figure, but a faint trace of worry showed between her brows.
"Supreme Elder, can this... really succeed?" she asked softly.
Hua Wuji did not answer. He merely turned his gaze toward the dim sky beyond the window.
Only after a long while did he slowly speak. "No one can predict whether it will succeed. But one thing is certain—"
"Ye Fan must not be allowed to live."
"His existence is an enormous threat to our Ruthless lineage."
Hua Wuxin's heart tightened, and she did not dare ask any more questions.
Three days later, Nine Li Dynasty, Ancestral Hall.
Li Lei entered the hall with delight written all over his face and bowed toward the Nine Li Ancestor, who sat cross-legged in meditation.
"Ancestor, it's done!"
The Nine Li Ancestor opened his eyes, a sharp glint flashing through them. "The Ruthless lineage agreed?"
"They agreed!" Li Lei said excitedly. "And they even came up with an extremely detailed plan!"
"Let me hear it."
Li Lei took a deep breath and recounted the Ruthless lineage's plan in full.
After listening, the Nine Li Ancestor curled his lips into a satisfied smile.
"Good, very good," he said slowly. "The Ruthless lineage truly deserves to be called an ancient force with a legacy stretching back ten thousand years. They act decisively and without dragging their feet."
"However..." His tone shifted. "Their proposal to deal with Ye Fan first does surprise me somewhat."
Li Lei nodded. "I also find it strange. Logically speaking, Chu Yang is the greatest threat. Why would they ignore the nearer target and go after Ye Fan first?"
The Nine Li Ancestor sneered. "The reason is simple—they are afraid."
Li Lei froze.