He swept his gaze over the crowd, taking in every expression. After a pause, he continued, "I won't purge those who oppose me as Guan Shangtian did. Those willing to stay may stay. Those unwilling may collect a thousand spirit stones and seek their own livelihood!"
"What wrong did City Lord Guan commit? You actually killed him!" an old man in blue said.
"Oh? Who are you? How do you know Guan Shangtian did nothing wrong?" Xu Qingtong asked.
"I am the chief steward of the City Lord's Manor. Though the City Lord had a rather violent temper, he was not someone who slaughtered innocents indiscriminately!"
Xu Qingtong gave a cold laugh. "He didn't slaughter innocents indiscriminately? How did City Lord Bai die? What about the people who used to serve in the City Lord's Manor? Where did they all go?"
The old man in blue was momentarily tongue-tied, unable to answer.
Xu Qingtong continued, "Whenever a shop in this city did well, he would stick his hand into it. If its owners refused to submit, he would seize their property through trickery or force, or work against them in secret. The people's grievances filled the streets, yet they dared only feel anger, not voice it! Are you telling me you knew nothing of this?"
The old man's lips moved, but no words came out.
"I know you were Guan Shangtian's trusted confidant. I won't make things difficult for you. If you wish to leave, you may collect a thousand spirit stones. If you wish to avenge Guan Shangtian, you may come find me at any time!" Xu Qingtong said.
The old man in blue still said nothing. He merely cupped his fist toward Xu Qingtong, then turned and left the Martial Arts Arena.
Xu Qingtong did not hinder him