Seeing everyone deep in thought over his words, Mo Han continued, "If reason could solve problems, then the invasion of our Fei Ji City by the Ao Yue Empire a few years ago would never have happened. I believe that if our Tian Long Empire were truly powerful enough to strike fear into all other nations, we wouldn't need to offer any explanation today, nor would our reputation suffer any loss. On the contrary, it would only bolster our national prestige. That, I think, is the characteristic of a truly strong nation, and the citizens of such an empire would be proud to be born into it."

Mo Han’s fiery and impassioned words stirred the blood of everyone present, the Emperor Long Zhantian’s face flushing crimson with excitement. He roared, "Well said! Mo Han, what you’ve said truly speaks to the heart of this Emperor! Only overwhelming power makes those with ill intentions hesitate; mere words will not make them retreat in the face of difficulty. I have decided: We shall announce to the outside world that Miss Murong’s illness has been cured by our Tian Long Empire’s Priest Mo Han, and they need no longer remain here."

Hearing the Emperor's decision, Gongsun Wuji's expression flickered, his eyes fixed unwaveringly on Mo Han. He said nothing more; only he knew what thoughts churned within his mind.

Murong Tian clapped Mo Han on the shoulder and said, "Brother Mo Han, I, Murong Tian, have admired few people in my life, but today, your words truly earn my utmost respect. I have nothing left to say—you’ve filled me with fervor!"

And Murong Feixue also kept her gaze fixed on Mo Han, remaining silent. Her face was veiled, so her exact expression was impossible to discern, but judging by the slight tremor in her body, she too must have been deeply moved by Mo Han's speech.

Just then, Gongsun Wuji spoke up, "Young brother Mo Han’s words have truly brought light to my mind. This old man is deeply ashamed; despite having lived so many years, I have not seen this issue as clearly as the young brother. I beg for your forgiveness for my earlier rudeness."

Hearing Gongsun Wuji’s words, not only Mo Han but also Murong Tian was momentarily stunned, unsure what scheme Gongsun Wuji was brewing. However, Mo Han smiled and replied, "Hehe, I was merely speaking off the cuff. For Lord Gongsun to say that makes me feel quite embarrassed."

Yet, his expression betrayed no hint of embarrassment whatsoever.

Gongsun Wuji, however, smiled kindly. "The young brother is too modest. To possess such a state of mind at such a young age truly earns my admiration."

After saying this, Gongsun Wuji turned back to the Emperor. "Your Majesty, regarding this young man, Mo Han, your subject has another matter to report."

The Emperor said, "Oh? What else, Lord Gongsun? You may speak plainly."

Gongsun Wuji continued, "Some time ago, your subject mentioned a young man outside Fei Ji City who, with just a few simple words, easily breached Fei Ji City, a fortress famed for never falling. Your Majesty had commanded me to thoroughly investigate this matter, and I have now confirmed that this heroic young man is none other than this young brother Mo Han."

Hearing Gongsun Wuji's confirmation, the Emperor’s eyes suddenly lit up. He addressed Mo Han gleefully, "Oh, Mo Han, is what Lord Gongsun says true? If it is, this Emperor must bestow a great reward upon you! Your suggestion saved countless residents of Fei Ji City. This Emperor has always been fair in reward and punishment; state any request you have, and I shall certainly fulfill it. How about this: I grant you the title of Marquis, and bestow upon you five hundred mu of land within the capital. Are you satisfied?"

Upon hearing the Emperor’s decree, those around them displayed expressions of envy and astonishment. To rise from a commoner to the rank of Marquis in one stroke was an honor unprecedented in the history of the Tian Long Empire.

Murong Tian even exclaimed happily to Mo Han, "Young brother, few are favored with the Emperor's praise! Why don't you quickly offer your thanks?"

Mo Han quickly rose and replied, "Your Majesty, I only spoke casually; it was nothing significant. I never intended to seek any reward, so I thank Your Majesty for your kind offer."

Mo Han understood clearly that this reward was not easily accepted. Though he deeply desired to accept it, accepting the Emperor's bounty today would effectively tether him to the Tian Long Empire. Soon, he would be dragged into these murky political disputes, bound to serve the Emperor, which would violate his true aspirations. At that point, he could hardly enjoy the freedom to adventure as he pleased, and he still had a promise to the Daili women to help them restore their kingdom; he could not remain in the Tian Long Empire indefinitely.

Mo Han’s refusal stunned not only the Emperor but also Murong Tian and Gongsun Wuji. No one had expected him to refuse such a tempting offer.

The Emperor exclaimed in shock, "Why? Are you dissatisfied with my reward? If so, state what you desire, and I will surely meet it." The Emperor genuinely favored Mo Han, as a talent who could breach Fei Ji City with a few casual words was exceedingly rare. Furthermore, Mo Han’s temperament suited the Emperor well, making him eager to keep Mo Han in service.

The Emperor’s follow-up words caused even greater astonishment. Such an open offer from the Emperor was almost unheard of. Those who had served in court for years had never witnessed the Emperor speaking to a subject with such a tone, indicating that Mo Han’s future prospects were limitless.

Everyone calculated their own stakes inwardly. Gongsun Wuji felt particularly smug; he had long recognized Mo Han’s limitless potential, which was why he had offered his assistance today. This incident, regardless of whether Mo Han accepted the imperial reward or not, cemented a debt of favor that Mo Han would surely remember, which would undoubtedly benefit his own family in the future.

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