Emperor’s Domination

Ten-realm had four while Crimson Virtue only had two. The latter’s expression darkened, unable to stop the demand.

“The Jiang’s two badges support Crimson Virtue.” Absolute Ancestor’s voice came from above. Two badges fell into his hand.

“So that’s four too.” Someone said.

“Four against four.” Eight had appeared at this point, leaving four left.

“The Jiang’s two are out now.” Someone said.

This wasn’t surprising because the Jiang has always supported the desolate branch. Absolute Ancestor helping Crimson Virtue was expected.

“It’s even then.” A protector commented.

Many protectors and elders hoped for this outcome - a delicate balance instead of actual conflict.

“I borrow two orders from the Liu and the Xiu. Please send them.” Ten-realm spoke.

Sure enough, the two clans complied and brought the orders to him before astounded eyes.

Crimson Virtue’s group certainly didn’t like this development.

“You can borrow the badges?” One disciple found this surprising.

“Yes, and it counts as a vote.” An old elder nodded.

“What’s the difference between borrowing and casting a vote of support?” The disciple asked.

“A direct vote shows that the owner is on the same side. Borrowing, that’s different, it is a favor or a chance to repay a debt.” The elder said.

“Right, the Xiu and the Liu might owe the Chen a favor. Now is the time to repay.” A desolate god added.

Everyone knew these two clans were descendants of the seven stars. Their founders once stood equal to Desolate Ancestor. She remembered old sentiments and gave them an order.

Unfortunately, they declined dramatically. Of course, this was relative since they were still as strong as a kingdom or sect outside. 

Throughout the years, they have received favors from the Chen. A debt must be repaid eventually regardless of how many generations have passed. They had no choice but to lend their badges to Ten-realm once he evoked this past.

“They came prepared.” Tortoise and the others discussed among themselves.

The borrowing couldn’t have been an instant decision. This meant the Chen had visited the other two clans previously.

“Now it’s six versus four.” Someone commented.

“Two left, Crimson Virtue Emperor must borrow them to stop Ten-realm Emperor.” One disciple murmured.

“Whale Ancestor has one but he’s not in the sect, it’s too late to borrow this.” An elder shook his head.

“And he might not lend it either since he has always been neutral.” Most could see the outcome already.

Whale Ancestor preferred to roam in the oceans so it was too late. Ten-realm had taken this into account.

“What about the last one?” Another asked after a quick count.

Lower-ranking members had no idea. Desolate gods and emperors thought about this for a moment.

“It is most likely in Wisdom Ancestor’s possession.” Dragon-pill said, albeit without confidence.

This last one didn’t matter much since Ten-realm had six and Whale Ancestor was not available.

“Brother, your opposition is null, I have six orders.” Ten-realm declared.

“What do you want?” Crimson Virtue took a deep breath, unable to go against the orders given their symbolic nature.

“Expel the outsiders and take back the divine mountain.” Ten-realm said.

“You came prepared, I see. Ten-realm, you are courting death by being too smart.” Crimson Virtue stared at him and said.

“Our Desolate Frontier has always followed the ancestral teachings, right?” Ten-realm said.

Everyone knew Crimson Virtue would acquiesce since the orders were absolute.

Many protectors and elders knew this was more than just banishing Driedtree Emperor. Ten-realm’s real goal was to seize Idle Peak. He had the right justification on top of the proper authority to do so.