At Grand Elder Meng Tianzheng's words, many people's expressions changed.
The Imperial Pass had a vast population, and relations among its clans were complicated. Naturally, some people hoped peace could last forever and no longer wanted to fight the Foreign Realm.
Now, to protect Desolate, Grand Elder Meng Tianzheng was willing to fall out with these people, which was tantamount to extinguishing their hopes.
"Senior Meng, please reconsider. Though Desolate is your disciple, handing him over could buy the Imperial Pass a period of peace and save countless lives."
Those willing to negotiate peace with the Foreign Realm stepped forward to speak.
"Are you deaf? Who can guarantee that the people of the Foreign Realm are telling the truth? Can you guarantee it? If you cannot, step aside."
Grand Elder Meng Tianzheng glanced at that man. This time, he offered no gentle words.
The great cultivator who had just spoken turned pale and staggered back two steps, never speaking again.
Seeing such a forceful side of Grand Elder Meng Tianzheng left everyone present utterly astonished. He usually spoke quite gently, and even with the great cultivators of the various clans, he never used his status to pressure them.
But this time, Grand Elder Meng Tianzheng was unyielding, his entire body radiating a sharp edge.
"Have you finished considering? Hand over Desolate, and the Imperial Pass can enjoy peace for a time. Otherwise, our realm's Undying Kings will break through the Heavenly Abyss and raze the Imperial Pass!"
At that moment, below the city wall, the Imperial Clan Supreme, whose injuries had largely healed, shouted.
Before Grand Elder Meng Tianzheng could speak, a cool, ethereal voice rang out. "This farce should end. And this game of chess should draw to a close as well."
Those words drifted into everyone's ears like