"Lei Kun, we admit defeat."
Steward Zhou drew a deep breath, suppressing the unwillingness in his heart before gritting his teeth. "However, Hall Master Li Cheng has already received word and is on his way. He will arrive within the time it takes an incense stick to burn."
He tried to use the name of his late Emperor Realm hall master to exert pressure, hoping to buy time. Even if it only made the White Tiger Captain somewhat wary, it might give them a sliver of hope later.
"Good that you know better." Lei Kun sneered, his tone growing ever more arrogant. He looked down at them as if they were clowns. "As for your hall master? So what if he comes? A mere late Emperor Realm cultivator dares show off before me, a White Tiger Captain? Forget him—even if a peak Emperor Realm expert came in person today, they would still have to show Lord Lin some respect!"
Hu Xiongsha's mouth twitched beside him, and he could not help grumbling inwardly. Good heavens, Lei Kun has gotten much better at boasting. A few years ago in Heavenly Palace Small City, when a late Emperor Realm expert pressured you, you ran faster than anyone while carrying the Thunder God Bell. You did not even dare look back. Now that Lord Lin has your back, you dare say such big words.
Though he mocked Lei Kun inwardly, Hu Xiongsha revealed nothing on his face. Instead, he stepped forward and swept his sharp gaze across the Black Wind Hall cultivators present. "Since you admit defeat, surrender quietly. Do not put up any unnecessary resistance. Otherwise, once Captain Lei's great bell comes down on your heads, it will not be coming back up."
After making his display, Hu Xiongsha gestured to the White