However—
"Wait!"
A sharp, urgent voice cut through the silence.
The Second Prince stepped forward, his robes still torn and singed from the earlier beating.
He forced a smile, though his face was pale.
"Lord Bai Zihan," he said, clasping his hands together and bowing deeply, "someone of your might deserves to command more than a single clan. I am willing to serve under you—no, to assist you in managing the Falling Star Empire in your stead!"
He spoke eagerly, his voice trembling with excitement rather than fear.
The words struck the Emperor like a blade to the chest.
His face twisted in fury, his Qi trembling as he glared at his own son.
"You—bastard child!" he roared, spitting blood. "Even now, you still covet the throne?!"
The Second Prince ignored him, eyes shining with a greedy light that no longer hid behind courtesy.
Before the Emperor could lash out again, another voice rang out.
"Lord Bai Zihan!"
