Xia Wujie rose and cupped his fist.
"By imperial decree, I have traveled through every division of the four regions to put the Human World's immortal order in order and unify the Mortal World's Dao lineages." His words were grand and high-sounding, with not a mention of "purges and extermination."
Absurd. Great Xia was clearly doing this to ensure peace between mortals and immortals.
"Of the one hundred and thirty-seven sects in the eastern Human World, ninety-six in the Northern Border, and seventy-nine in the Western Territory, over ninety percent have submitted their Sect Registers and expressed their willingness to enter into an agreement with Great Xia."
"The sects of the Southern Border received word somewhat later due to their remote location, but half have now sent envoys to the Imperial Capital."
"Mortals and immortals alike enjoy peace and harmony, with no further unrest."
Yun Qing and Yun Tianluo quietly drank their tea, waiting for Xia Wujie's "but."
Sure enough, the honest-looking Stabilizing Prince changed tack, a hint of difficulty entering his expression. "Yet a handful of sects still cling to the old order."
Xia Wushang tapped his fingertips lightly against the desk. "Which sects?"
Xia Wujie said, "The Supreme Mystery Sword Sect, the Hanging Lantern Ancient Monastery, White Deer Cave Heaven, and... the Perched Cloud Immortal Sect."
"These sects all inherit Dao lineages passed down through the ages, originating in the Primordial Era before mortals and immortals were separated. Though the Human World's spiritual energy has now dwindled, the Immortal Path has been severed, and their legacies have declined day by day, no longer enjoying their ancient glory, their pride remains undiminished. They refuse to obey the decree and submit to unified rule."
Xia Wushang's expression did not change. He merely asked, "With our dynasty's strength, we cannot bring