Xue Qinghe spoke first, smiling. "Third Prince of the Star Luo Empire, I've long heard of you. Even in Heaven Dou, I often hear tales of your 'heroic' exploits. Now that we've met, I see your reputation is well deserved."
Dai Mubai's temper flared at once.
They were both blond, so why had Xue Qinghe opened with an insult? Were those really "heroic" exploits?
Dai Mubai refused to back down. He curled his lip and said mockingly, "The Heaven Dou Empire must have enjoyed peace for too long. Even its crown prince has no state affairs to handle and spends his time listening to gossip. What surprises me is that someone as precious as the Heaven Dou Crown Prince would personally lead troops against the Wolf Bandits."
The Heaven Dou Imperial Family's Martial Soul was the Swan, which was ill-suited to combat. Everyone knew it. Dai Mubai was plainly mocking Xue Qinghe's strength and suggesting he go back to listening to gossip.
Xue Qinghe took no offense. He merely smiled and replied calmly, "When leading an army, what matters most isn't courage in battle, but strategy and careful planning. Someone who knows only how to charge headlong is no different from a brainless brute."
Damn, he's got a sharp tongue!
Dai Mubai gave him another look, then went on. "I'm only concerned for the Heaven Dou Crown Prince's safety. You'd best not enter the mountains lightly. What would happen if you ran into the Wolf Bandits' main force and help couldn't reach you in time? Why not keep your troops on the perimeter to stop them from escaping and transport supplies for me while you're at it? That would be a fine contribution."
As the two traded barbs, the atmosphere in the tent grew tense.
The two Soul Douluos beside