Ye Xiu was not entirely sure either. He only knew that Nie Li had brought Duan Jian out of the Black Prison World; beyond that, he knew nothing.
Meanwhile, the heads of the other families were all busy gossiping.
Rumors had long circulated that Nie Li and Ye Ziyun were especially close. Previously, they had felt that no matter how exceptional Nie Li's talent was, marrying the City Lord's daughter would still mean reaching far above his station.
But now, it seemed they had all underestimated Nie Li.
They already considered Duan Jian's strength equal to Ye Zong's. With such a formidable expert at Nie Li's side, they would have to reassess Nie Li's standing.
Some even took the initiative to curry favor by offering toasts to Nie Hai, the head of the Heavenly Marks Family.
Nie Hai was delighted as well. After all, the Heavenly Marks Family was steadily rising, and with its connection to Nie Li, it might well climb even higher!
Ye Xiu decided to have Nie Li preside over the banquet. Patting him on the shoulder, he reminded him that all the families' leading experts were present, with plenty of people both inside and outside, so he must not get stage fright.
Nie Li was in no hurry. After all, the families would need some time to exchange pleasantries, and the longer they dragged things out, the more advantageous it would be.
Ye Xiu quietly shot a meaningful glance at Huyan Xiong below.
Huyan Xiong was a staunch supporter of Ye Zong and knew about the operation. Once he caught Ye Xiu's glance, he knew what to do.
He stood with his wine cup in hand, walked straight over to Shen Hong, and patted him on the shoulder, saying with a cheerful smile that it had