Xu Jiuling showed no teeth-grinding fury, no oath-swearing frenzy, and certainly no red-eyed hatred.
His gaze was no longer sharp as a sword. Instead, it had grown deep, like a bottomless pool.
He looked at Qing Chen and said, "In this war, my failure to hold my post led to the unfortunate fall of a subsidiary island in Sea Prosperity Island's defensive line.
"After deliberation, the Council of Elders decided to strip me of my position as Deputy Hall Master, retaining only my status as a Sect Protector and allowing me to atone through meritorious service."
After hearing Xu Jiuling's account, Qing Chen could not help feeling a surge of admiration.
He could more or less guess what Xu Jiuling had done.
He had to admit, this was a ruthless man.
Qing Chen suppressed the turmoil within him and asked, "Then, Hall Master Xu, what do you plan to do next? What can I do?"
Xu Jiuling smiled faintly. "Talking to you certainly saves trouble. You live up to your great reputation, Qing Patrol Envoy.
"The sect's leadership has issued clear orders: we cannot limit ourselves to defense in this battle. According to reliable intelligence, Daoist Pujin will arrive at Chanda within five days.
"When the time comes, Elder Shangshan will personally lead all our forces aboard our Condensed Jade Sect's War Treasure Ship for a decisive battle against Daoist Pujin's Blackwood Treasure Ship."
At this point, Xu Jiuling's gaze grew utterly resolute, killing intent rising all around him.
"Qing Chen, I won't say anything else. My only wish is to kill Xu Wenshan, the head of the Xu Household, with my own hands and wipe out the Xu Household. I hope you can help me wipe them out."
Qing Chen promptly said, "Hall Master Xu, never mind all this