"A trick, huh? Well, I guess it may seem like that to you."
After putting away his weapon, Yuan slowly approached the First Elder.
Seeing this, the First Elder hastily distanced himself from Yuan.
A profound light flickered within Yuan's eyes, and he spoke in a low but commanding tone, "Halt."
"?!?!"
The First Elder was greatly shocked when his body suddenly stopped listening to his commands and halted all movements.
"Get on your knees."
As if Yuan's words held dominion over his very soul, the First Elder dropped to his knees and knelt before him.
"W-What is going on?! What did you—"
"Shut up. You will only speak when given permission."
"??????"
The First Elder tried to speak, but not a single word escaped. His lips felt as heavy as a mountain, and even the act of opening his mouth was beyond him.
