Lord Xiao Wu, Have Mercy!

Heaven Dou Imperial Palace, imperial study.

Xue Ye had just taken his medicine. He slumped against a cushioned couch, his complexion poor. For reasons he could not fathom, his health had declined day by day over the past few years, and his mind had grown increasingly muddled.

Several senior ministers had talked him into mustering the troops a few days ago. He had never been entirely sure of the decision, and after thinking it through today, he had summoned the entire court to announce that he was canceling the campaign.

A spy suddenly rushed into the hall and dropped to his knees. Only after catching his breath did he speak:

"Your Majesty, the Titled Douluo of Spirit Hall's Elder Hall attacked Linyuan Pavilion in force. Not only did they fail to capture the Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast, they lost a level ninety-five Super Douluo, and several Titled Douluo elders were gravely wounded."

The moment he finished, the ministers split into two camps and began arguing over one another.

At the head of the military officers stood Ge Long, commander of Heaven Dou's million-strong army. He was in his fifties, broad and imposing, clad in gleaming silver Heaven Dou armor with the Sky-Supporting Trident Helmet on his head. He cupped his fists, and his booming voice set the imperial study humming:

"Your Majesty! Linyuan Pavilion has just fought a major battle with Spirit Hall. They must be badly battered and struggling to catch their breath. Heaven Dou's hundred thousand troops are ready. This is a heaven-sent opportunity! I request permission to march on Linyuan Pavilion at once and bring back the Hundred-Thousand-Year Soul Beast!"

An elderly minister from the faction advocating peace stepped forward, his brows tightly knit.

"Please reconsider, Your Majesty. Even with all its Titled Douluo attacking together, Spirit Hall