“However…” Huan Shaoyou looked at the central jade platform, where the Xia Emperor was seated, and sighed. “I suspect that since the imperial family wishes to protect your life, they won’t agree to let you fight.”

He was deliberately spurring them into action; he worried that otherwise, the imperial family would intervene to stop Su Yi.

Numerous prominent figures couldn’t help but find this a pity. It was true; despite his young age, Su Yi was seated alongside them on the central jade platform. It was obvious how highly the imperial family valued him.

Given the circumstances, how could the emperor possibly just stand back and watch as Su Yi invited his own humiliation?

But against all expectations, the Xia Emperor laughed heartily and agreed. “So long as Fellow Daoist Su is willing to participate in the Orchid Terrace Dharma Assembly, how could the imperial family possibly stand in his way?”

The entire audience was flabbergasted. They were at a complete loss.

Xia Qingyuan couldn’t help but press her lips into a grin, her eyes narrowing into crescent moons. “Brother Su, whatever you do, don’t let him concede easily.”

“I guarantee I won’t give him the chance to admit defeat,” said Su...