章 127: Chapter 127: The Hermit Emperor(1/2)

"Mmm?" Jin, with his back turned to Teng Ma, sensed a shift in the atmosphere around him. 

The once-burning hatred and darkened expressions on the faces of the people gradually transformed into confusion and discomfort, aligning with the change in Teng Ma's demeanor. 

As he turned to face Teng Ma, Jin observed that the man's smile had not faltered. His lips were taut, a smile that didn't reach his eyes, which were now squinted in a measured gaze. 

Teng Ma extended one of his hands towards Jin, a gesture that seemed both welcoming and calculated.

"What's the assistance?" Jin's question hung in the air, his gaze sweeping the crowd around him even as he addressed Teng Ma. 

To his dismay, even Vice Leader Mang, who typically regarded him with a cold demeanor, appeared taken aback by their leader's words. "They have no idea," Jin mused inwardly, his suspicion growing.