The Ghost Valley Sage smiled and said, "I've already made up my mind. There's no use in trying to convince me otherwise." His tone was determined though his face was a little pale. He had sustained some internal injuries and was sure he would not be able to hold out much longer if another Heavenly Thunderbolt struck him. Still, he was willing to do anything to ensure Darryl's safety.

The Nine Heaven Emperor's face darkened when he heard that. He would not suffer any public humiliation like that. The entire Ghost Mountain was deathly quiet as everyone locked their eyes on the Ghost Valley Sage. He brought out a mixed bag of feelings in them. They could not believe that he would defy the Nine Heaven Emperor again and again. The atmosphere became unbearably suffocating, and the officials, soldiers, and generals dared not breathe too loudly.

Grunt took a step forward, pointed at the Ghost Valley Sage, and shouted, "Is this how you repay His Majesty's kindness? He has given you chances