Perhaps Zheng Li had inherited his nature from his mother. All in all, he lacked neither cunning nor methods, and possessed a ruthless streak besides.
He listened expressionlessly as those below reported one after another, reclining carelessly on a long bench as he read a scroll.
Only when a particular man entered did he sit upright.
A sharp gleam flashed in Zheng Li's eyes at the sight of the newcomer. He immediately rose and bowed with clasped hands. "Mr. Meng."
The man addressed as Mr. Meng was none other than Meng En.
He had the bearing of an immortal, with serene features that suggested nothing in the world could trouble him. Yet the scar at his temple brutally marred that beauty, lending him a jarring air. His Life-Bound Treasure floated beside him, a Spirit Artifact that had developed a spirit.
At the greeting, he merely nodded faintly, then took a seat to one side.
Seeing that the newcomer remained silent, Zheng Li could not help the flash of viciousness deep in his eyes. Indeed, even small fry had to be worshipped if they came from above. That was precisely why he wanted so badly to break free of them.
An eerie silence fell over the hall. The others no longer dared to report and could only remain where they stood, exchanging glances.
Zheng Li drew a deep breath. He knew he still needed their people to eliminate Su Jiu and the others; this was not the time to turn hostile. Forcing a faint smile, he looked at the newcomer. "I hadn't expected you to be ready for assignments already, Mr. Meng. As for your injuries..." He did not elaborate, but both knew perfectly well where those injuries had come from.
Meng En's gaze flickered. Thinking of the Soul-Draining Jade, stolen