I See the Aura of the Great Emperor in All My Disciples

Chapter 1316: Chapter 1316: Open Conflict and Covert Fight (1/4) Chapter 1316: Chapter 1316: Open Conflict and Covert Fight (1/4) Sometimes, the murderous intent hidden in words can be more chilling than actual physical confrontation.

The conversation between the Ninth Prince, the Third Prince, and the Fifth Prince made everyone present feel a cold dread in their hearts.

At the same time, it also made them understand that the rift between these three had grown beyond reconciliation.

Even if the Ninth Prince succeeded in becoming the Crown Prince.

After all, if the Ninth Prince truly gained power, how could the Third and Fifth Princes, who had orchestrated such acts, possibly end well?

The first they would have to deal with would be them.

“Alright, us standing here is making it uncomfortable for everyone to sit. Shall we take our seats first?” the Ninth Prince said with a smile, gesturing towards the officials and prodigies who had all stood up.

The Third and Fifth Princes nodded and followed the Ninth Prince to the seats that were two steps higher than all the others.

And as they took their seats, they noticed Mu Fusheng and others seated at the lower end.

“It seems that these are the prodigy students from the Mixed Spirit Academy,” the Third Prince said with a feigned smile. “I’ve heard much about your talents from our younger brother; perhaps we can work closely together in the future.”

Ye Qiubai said with a cupped fist salute, “That will have to depend on Your Highness’s sincerity.”

The Ninth Prince gave a slight smile, not showing any anger at the Third Prince for trying to poach his allies before him.

After all, with the clear stand-off, Ye Qiubai and the others were no fools and would naturally avoid offending both sides.

The Fifth Prince also said with a smile, “Isn’t there a segment to boost morale later? I hope to see the abilities of the few of you then.”

“That’s enough chatting for now, my brothers. The next segment should commence, lest we drag on for too long,” the Ninth Prince beckoned lightly with his hand.

Seeing this, the black-robed guard by his side nodded and promptly announced in a loud voice, “Officials present their gifts!”

Instantly, maids walked out holding various treasures in their hands and came to the center of the banquet.

As they offered the gifts, they also announced the names of those presenting them.

“Prince Ming presents one Heavenly God Fire Pearl!”

“The Chief of Staff of the Ministry of Personnel presents one Qilin Lifespan Flower!”

…

Although the process seemed somewhat boring.

Yet it was a necessary part of pledging allegiance.

The Ninth Prince wore a smile, while the Third and the Fifth Princes, although still keeping their decorum with smiles, had their eyes darken gradually.

Prince Ming and the Chief of Staff were significant figures in the court. Such heavyweights typically don’t take sides easily, and now, suddenly allying with the Ninth Prince, this would greatly enhance his prestige!

It was known that the greatest weakness of the Ninth Prince was his foundation and momentum.

It seemed that this visit to Azure Dragon City had made numerous officials see the potential in the Ninth Prince…

At that moment, a maid came forward carrying a red wooden tray, on top of which, with nothing to cover it, lay a segment of bamboo engulfed in blue frost. Even without trying to feel it intentionally, everyone present could feel their entire bodies as if they had been cleansed with ice.

Mystery Ice Spirit Bamboo.

A treasure at the peak level of the Ancestor Realm.

Whether for weapon refinement, or for the cultivation of ice-elemental cultivators, such a treasure could incite a storm of blood and wind across the entire Tianji Continent.

The words of the black-robed guard that followed made all the officials and prodigies on the scene tense up.

“The Second Princess presents one Mystery Ice Spirit Bamboo!”

Such a precious treasure, and it was offered by the Princess herself.

It was well known that although the Second Princess had no interest in the royal power, her talent and profound background were such that if she wished to compete for the throne, even the Ninth Prince might not be able to contest it.

The Emperor himself had said that if the Princess ever wanted his position, he would abdicate at any time.

“`

The special status of the second princess within the Nine Dragon Divine Dynasty was evident.