Chapter 298: Chapter 298: The Debt of Gratitude Erased, Xue Xing and His Nephew Placed Under House Arrest
"Any last words?" Chen Lei slowly advanced toward them.
Overcome with fear, Prince Xue Xing stood frozen in place, unable to move.
Faced with a powerful Soul Douluo, how could his meager strength possibly resist? Moreover, after living a life of indulgence for so long, aside from possessing a high soul power level, he had little actual combat ability.
Chen Lei couldn't truly kill him. According to their agreement, she needed to escalate the situation and ideally make it known throughout the city.
Thus, she deliberately slowed her pace, waiting for someone to come and rescue the Xue Xing uncle-nephew duo.
Not long after, a stern voice rang out from behind her: "Stop! This is Tiandou City, under the emperor's domain—how dare you act so recklessly!"
The first to arrive was not Dugu Bo but the city patrol of Tiandou City.
Xue Xing, seizing this lifeline like a drowning man, screamed frantically: "Quick! Capture this madwoman—she wants to kill me!"
The captain of this city patrol squad was shocked upon hearing this.
Xue Xing was an imperial prince—if he were killed, wouldn't the entire city descend into chaos? Moreover, their small unit would likely be held accountable.
Without time to think further, the city patrol quickly shielded Prince Xue Xing behind them and confronted Chen Lei.
"Honorable elder, as a mighty Soul Douluo, do you really want to commit an assassination here? Do you not fear the Tiandou Empire holding you accountable?" the captain of the city patrol asked gravely.
Chen Lei laughed bitterly. "Me assassinate this so-called prince? Hah! Why don't you ask him why these people on the ground are dead, and why I'm trying to kill him?"
Prince Xue Xing's reputation had always been poor, and upon hearing this, the patrol captain roughly understood the situation.
Most likely, Xue Xing had tried to attack this strong individual, only to hit a steel wall and nearly get himself killed.
"This matter is serious—I cannot decide it. I will report it to His Majesty, and let him decide. If what you say is true, His Majesty will give you a satisfactory response."
With that, he gestured. "Take Prince Xue Xing and Fourth Prince Xue Beng away and await His Majesty's judgment."
This action essentially aimed to protect the two from harm.
However, Chen Lei wouldn't let them have their way so easily.
Her curved blade shot out, blocking their retreat.
"You can leave, but this prince and this prince's son aren't going anywhere. I came here to attend the academic exchange conference. The Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect promised to ensure our safety, yet this happened today—I demand an explanation."
The patrol captain felt the situation becoming thorny.
The Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect was the empire's guardian sect—it simply couldn't be offended.
Why did Xue Xing pick such a hard target to mess with? This was clearly asking for trouble.
Seeing the situation escalate, the patrol captain left a few men to guard the Xue Xing duo and quickly took the rest to the palace and the Crown Prince's residence to report.
Prince Xue Xing knew all too well that if this reached the ears of Xue Qinghe and Xue Ye, he would be finished.
Xue Qinghe and his faction would undoubtedly use this incident to impeach him.
Under pressure, Xue Ye would surely strip him of his position and confine him to his residence. At that point, their chance at the throne would be completely lost.
But offending a powerful Soul Douluo—and one invited by the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect to the academic exchange conference—was no small matter. This situation wouldn't be easily resolved.
After all, the academic exchange conference was highly valued by the Tiandou Imperial Family, to the point that they had even decided to have Xue Qinghe personally attend to show support.
Their already strained relationship with the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect would now be irreparably damaged.
Just as Xue Xing's face turned ashen, a figure flashed before him.
"Mr. Dugu, save me!"
Dugu Bo was a Title Douluo—if he was willing to mediate, it would certainly be ideal.
But Dugu Bo wouldn't let him off scot-free this time.
This elaborate setup orchestrated by Ning Tianchen couldn't go to waste.
Dugu Bo pretended to side with Xue Xing, hurling harsh words at Chen Lei.
Chen Lei played along perfectly, putting on a convincing performance. "You're a Title Douluo—do you really intend to be so unreasonable? Hah! Clearly, it was Prince Xue Xing—"
Her words caused Dugu Bo's attitude to visibly "waver."
Moreover, since Prince Xue Xing didn't deny the accusations, it was clear she wasn't lying.
Sighing deeply, Dugu Bo said, "Your Highness, I've said before that I can help you with matters within reason. But this has crossed my bottom line. Please forgive me for being unable to intervene."
With that, he made a show of preparing to leave.
Xue Xing was utterly panicked.
If he could resolve this himself, the punishment would be lighter. But if the empire had to step in, the consequences would be dire.
Xue Ye might even abandon him entirely!
"Uncle, think of something!" Xue Beng's mind raced as he urgently urged him.
Chen Lei radiated murderous intent. If Dugu Bo left, there was no telling what extreme actions she might take.
Xue Xing was torn.
If he used this favor, Dugu Bo would definitely step in to help. But once used, Dugu Bo would no longer heed his commands.
Losing Dugu Bo would be painful enough—but losing the chance to compete for the throne entirely? At best, Dugu Bo could ensure their safe departure from Tiandou City, leaving them to live the rest of their lives in fear of Xue Qinghe.
Realizing this, Prince Xue Xing decided to take a gamble. Resolve this situation now, and there would still be a chance to seize the throne later.
"Mr. Dugu Bo, help me deal with that madwoman, and the debt between us will be erased!"
---
Meanwhile...
In front of the Crown Prince's residence, the city patrol quickly reported the situation to Xue Qinghe.
"Tianchen, the show is about to begin. I'll handle the affairs first—you should return to the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect now. No one will suspect your involvement." Xue Qinghe was in an excellent mood.
Xue Ye had intentionally supported Xue Xing and his faction to counterbalance Xue Qinghe's influence, aiming to prevent all officials from flocking solely to him and undermining Xue Ye's own power.
After all, one emperor meant one set of officials. With Xue Ye older than Xue Qinghe, these officials would naturally scramble to ingratiate themselves with Xue Qinghe for future promotions.
Supporting Xue Xing and Xue Beng was a signal to the outside world that the throne might not necessarily pass to Xue Qinghe.
Thus, some ministers who were willing to take risks or seek greater rewards would choose to side with Prince Xue Xing. This way, the factions in court would balance each other, achieving the equilibrium Xue Ye desired.
Now, with Xue Ye's health deteriorating rapidly, this was his most sensitive period. Xue Qinghe absolutely couldn't use this incident to completely crush Xue Xing's faction.
Having clarified the stakes, Ning Tianchen finally took his leave.
Xue Qinghe chuckled. "I truly wish you'd enter the court to assist me."
Ning Tianchen shrugged. "You know I'm not interested in court affairs."
With that, he disappeared outside the Crown Prince's residence.
Qing Luan Douluo approached Xue Qinghe and smiled. "He's right—we can't rush this. Our plan is nearing its final stages, and every move must be carefully considered."
---
On the other side...
When Ning Fengzhi learned that a scholar attending the conference had been attacked by Prince Xue Xing, he was furious.
"Fengzhi, that Xue Xing has some nerve! Does he really treat our Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect as nothing more than a decoration?" Gu Rong seemed ready to storm into the palace and demand answers.
Chen Xin sneered. "Xue Xing has always been arrogant and unrestrained—even at this critical moment, he doesn't know to hold back. It seems he doesn't take the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect seriously at all. He might even be testing our stance."
To them, no party benefited from this situation. Thus, they didn't see it as a carefully orchestrated plot but rather as a sudden incident.
The Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect placed great importance on this academic exchange conference.
If they successfully hosted this event, the sect would become a beacon in the academic world. Their influence might even surpass that of the Hao Tian Sect during its peak.
Though a towering tree attracts wind, if the tree is large enough, all eyes on the continent would focus on them, and the sect would no longer need to worry about being surrounded by rival powers.
Ning Fengzhi's expression darkened. "Bone Uncle, accompany me to the scene. Sword Uncle, inform Elder Ke to stabilize the emotions of the other scholars. The sect will provide a satisfactory explanation to all participating scholars."
---
Upon hearing Prince Xue Xing's words, Dugu Bo didn't show any excitement but instead asked, "Your Highness, have you thought this through? Are you sure you want to use this favor now?"
Xue Xing didn't hesitate and nodded firmly.
If this dragged on, the incident would inevitably spread across the city. By then, news of him breaking the law would cause public outrage, and Xue Ye would have no choice but to punish him severely.
With an affirmative answer, Dugu Bo stepped firmly in front of him. "Friend, I have some connections with Ning Tianchen of the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect. Could you, for the sake of both of us, let this matter drop?"
Chen Lei sneered. "Who is Ning Tianchen? Does he carry that much weight? Hah! Your Excellency is a Title Douluo—even if I disagree, what can I do?"
Dugu Bo's tone grew firm. "With me here, you won't lay a hand on Prince Xue Xing, whether you like it or not!"
"Hah! Old Poison Thing, you dare threaten a guest of the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect!"
A spatial rift opened in mid-air, and the figures of Gu Rong and Ning Fengzhi slowly emerged.
Dugu Bo frowned.
He didn't have much affection for the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect, though he had a good relationship with Ning Tianchen.
Since Xue Xing had used this favor, it was only reasonable for him to protect him.
Dugu Bo's stance was resolute. "Bone Douluo, Sect Master Ning—I never go back on my word. This time, I'll stand by Prince Xue Xing!"
Xue Xing let out a sigh of relief.
With this favor used, Dugu Bo would help him withstand the pressure from the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect. Next, he'd apologize sincerely to Xue Ye, and perhaps this matter could be minimized.
"Sect Master, when did Old Poison Thing become so assertive? Could he have struck a deal with Prince Xue Xing?" Gu Rong couldn't help but transmit his question telepathically.
Ning Fengzhi shook his head.
When Dugu Bo appeared in their line of sight, he was already mingling with Prince Xue Xing. It wasn't surprising that he now stepped forward to defend the latter.
"Teacher, Bone Douluo, Poison Douluo, and this senior here—today is truly lively." Xue Qinghe arrived on the scene with his guard squad.
Xue Ye had long been aware of the situation but remained inactive, clearly intending for Xue Qinghe to handle it.
As Ning Fengzhi's disciple, Xue Qinghe could reasonably expect some leniency from him.
"Teacher, I'm already aware of the matter. May I take my royal uncle back to the palace first? Later, Father will surely provide a satisfactory response to the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect."
Ning Fengzhi didn't refuse his request.
This matter could be big or small. If the Tiandou Imperial Family could provide a satisfactory response, it would save him the trouble of going to the palace himself.
"What does this senior think?" Xue Qinghe smiled as he looked at Chen Lei.
Chen Lei waved her hand dismissively. "Since you represent the imperial family and have already spoken, I naturally won't press the matter further. Besides, I can't afford to offend someone of this rank."
With no objections from either side, Xue Qinghe took the Xue Xing uncle-nephew duo back to the palace.
Gu Rong gave Dugu Bo a deep look and sighed helplessly. "Sect Master, this old poisoner…"
Ning Fengzhi interrupted. "Let it go. He merely protected Prince Xue Xing and didn't touch our core interests. Moreover, he has a good relationship with Tianchen—we don't need to antagonize him."
With that, the two left together.
Next, they needed to wait for the imperial family's response to reassure the many scholars.
---
Tiandou Palace, Imperial Study
Xue Ye, wrapped in a cloak, anxiously awaited Xue Qinghe's handling of the situation while sitting at his desk.
The academic exchange conference was of great significance to the Tiandou Empire. This event brought together scholars from the two major empires, various kingdoms, duchies, and even the Spirit Hall.
By establishing this reputation, the Tiandou Empire could use the opportunity to position Tiandou City as the city of soul master theories, attracting more talent to the imperial family in the future.
But Xue Xing's actions not only embarrassed the Tiandou Imperial Family but also disrupted the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect's plans.
What could be done?
While he was pondering this, Xue Qinghe arrived at the imperial study with the Xue Xing uncle-nephew duo.
Before meeting the emperor, Xue Qinghe had specially changed Xue Xing's clothes. Otherwise, the stench on him might have provoked Xue Ye to impose an even harsher punishment.
The uncle-nephew pair entered the imperial study, heads bowed, and knelt before Xue Ye with a thud.
Xue Ye, physically frail, took several deep breaths and asked softly, "Qinghe, how has the matter been resolved?"
Xue Qinghe truthfully replied, "Due to Dugu Bo's firm protection of Royal Uncle, the senior decided not to pursue the offense against him. However, Teacher requires a satisfactory response. After all, the impact of this incident is quite negative."
Xue Ye furrowed his brows, feeling mentally exhausted.
If the involved parties weren't pursuing the matter, the Tiandou Imperial Family wouldn't need to pay a heavy price. Once compensation was given, a reasonable explanation would suffice.
Prince Xue Xing was Xue Ye's own brother; both emotionally and logically, he had to protect him.
However, this matter concerned the empire and the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect—it couldn't be taken lightly.
After steadying his thoughts, Xue Ye questioned sternly, "Xue Xing, I entrusted you to properly teach Beng. Is this how you've taught him? Over the years, how many incidents have you caused, and yet you still haven't learned restraint!"
Xue Xing kept his head down, not daring to speak.
After all, he had no reason to argue.
Xue Qinghe, however, interjected. "Father, to err is human. Perhaps Royal Uncle's actions were not intentional but rather the result of being overwhelmed by the other party's provocation. As for Royal Brother, though somewhat unruly, his intentions are not malicious."
Xue Ye was somewhat surprised.
Logically, they were rivals, and Xue Qinghe taking advantage of the situation wouldn't have been unexpected. Yet, he spoke up for them.
Following the consecutive deaths of the second and third princes, though Xue Ye hadn't found the culprit, all signs pointed to Xue Qinghe's involvement.
To protect his youngest son, Xue Ye had doted on him excessively, only to end up with such an uneducated and frivolous individual.
The contrast between Xue Qinghe and Xue Beng was stark.
Nevertheless, whether this display of brotherly affection was genuine or feigned, Xue Ye was pleased to see it.
After some thought, he declared gravely, "You two are fined five years' worth of salary and must pay one million gold spirit coins as compensation. Additionally, you are confined to your respective residences for two years to observe your behavior!"
"Father, I know my mistake. I'll never cause trouble again—please don't confine me!"
House arrest meant being cut off from the outside world, which would hinder their ability to scheme for the throne and, worse, disrupt their pleasures.
Surprisingly, Xue Xing didn't object and accepted the punishment sincerely.
Being confined to their respective residences was hardly a punishment—they could easily delegate tasks to their subordinates. Whether they could leave their residences was irrelevant.
As for the fine of one million gold spirit coins, though it stung a bit, they could cover it with their accumulated wealth over the years.
Given such a light punishment, there was no reason to haggle and risk irritating Xue Ye, which might lead to harsher penalties.
At Xue Xing's signal, Xue Beng stopped throwing a tantrum. The uncle-nephew duo accepted their punishment and promptly left the palace to return to their respective residences.
On the way, Xue Beng was extremely anxious and whispered, "Royal Uncle, Father's health likely won't last two years. If we're confined at home, won't the throne fall into Xue Qinghe's hands without resistance?"
Xue Xing shook his head. "Not necessarily. My brother needs to give the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect an explanation. Our confinement is the empire's stance. After the academic exchange conference ends, if my brother wishes, he can reduce our confinement with any excuse."
"Moreover, our trusted subordinates haven't been dismissed. We can simply move from the front stage to the backstage. In short, Xue Qinghe won't ascend the throne so easily!"
Hearing this, Xue Beng was reassured and stopped complaining.
---
The Tiandou Empire's resolution was quickly delivered to the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect.
With the imperial family's attitude and substantial compensation, Ning Fengzhi was very satisfied and used the opportunity to reassure the other scholars.
As for the compensation in gold spirit coins, it was all awarded to Chen Lei.
That night, Ning Fengzhi summoned Ning Tianchen and instructed him to inquire why Dugu Bo helped Prince Xue Xing.
Ning Tianchen agreed and immediately sought out Dugu Bo.
At that moment, Dugu Bo was sitting on the roof of the courtyard, gazing at the starry sky.
Sensing Ning Tianchen's presence, he chuckled. "Little one, thank you."
Having repaid his debt of gratitude, he had never felt so relieved.
Perhaps this was what it meant to be free of burdens.
Ning Tianchen sat beside him. "Uncle Ning didn't discover anyone behind the scenes orchestrating this—it's all covered up."
Dugu Bo laughed. "I've offended Sect Master Ning today. You'll have to put in a good word for me. Aside from owing favors, I can agree to anything else."
Ning Tianchen retorted irritably, "How could I let you owe another favor? Don't worry—I've already prepared an explanation. As for Senior Chen Lei, you don't need to worry. I've already communicated with her."
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