Bai Tianheng's declaration still echoed through the sky.
The words slammed down like a war drum, drawing gasps and murmurs from the crowd.
But instead of responding with force—
Li Jianhong chuckled.
It was a cold, sharp sound.
Not angry.
Not afraid.
Just… confident.
Dangerously confident.
He clasped his hands behind his back and stepped to the front of the Li Clan warship, letting his voice carry without shouting.
"Bai Tianheng… still so stubborn. Still so proud."
He stared down at the Bai Clan patriarch like he was looking at a particularly foolish child.
Then his tone shifted—quieter now, but colder.
"You sure you want to do this? Refuse us... and risk your Bai Clan's dark little secret coming to light?"
The air seemed to freeze.
Bai Tianheng's gaze sharpened instantly.
A faint ripple of killing intent escaped him—but he held it back.
Li Jianhong continued, eyes narrowed with amusement.
