noffsinger Chapter 428 You're all trash
Chapter 428 You're all trash
Dongfang Honglei strongly recommended Zheng Qian and even publicly called him the number one genius in the Southern Region, which was indeed beyond his expectations and even more unexpected for everyone.
Although Zheng Qian was filled with doubts, he remained calm. He slowly stood up, his gaze sweeping gently over everyone present, finally settling on Dongfang Honglei. He said softly, "Honglei, you flatter me. I, Zheng Qian, am merely at the Dragon Transformation Realm. I have no claim to be the number one genius in the Southern Region, much less claim that my wisdom and insight far surpass yours. Every member of our team is an indispensable elite, each with their own strengths."
Upon hearing this, Dongfang Honglei's lips curled into a barely perceptible smile. He knew that Zheng Qian's humility was not feigned, but rather a genuine expression of his sincerity. His voice was deep: "Zheng Qian, you don't need to be modest. You single-handedly initiated the blockade and held out for four days; no one here could have done that. Similarly, they all have their own agendas and need a name that can both unite their hearts and foreshadow their future direction. I believe you can provide the most suitable answer."
Dongfang Honglei spoke very bluntly. He disapproved of the actions of Li Ming, You Haoshen, Hu Dinghuan, and Li Miaoran. They all clearly wanted to vie for leadership of the alliance, yet they were speaking in a roundabout way. He wouldn't give them any face and would say it out loud.
Zheng Qian's eyes revealed a depth and wisdom. He smiled slightly and then slowly spoke: "Everyone, I am very grateful for your efforts and wisdom in choosing the name for the alliance. However, in my opinion, a good name should not only conform to our culture and history, but also inspire us to keep moving forward and meet the challenges of the future."
As soon as Zheng Qian finished speaking, everyone present showed thoughtful expressions. He continued, "I'm just offering a suggestion; the final decision rests with everyone. I think 'Iron-Blooded Journey' is the most suitable name. 'Iron-Blooded' represents our determination and courage, while 'Journey' signifies the long journey and hardships we face. This name embodies our spirit and is full of expectation and confidence for the future."
"Iron-Blooded Conquest? That sounds like a pretty good name."
"Of all the names, my favorite is Iron-Blooded Journey."
"If I had to vote, I would definitely vote for Iron Blood Journey."
Zheng Qian's suggestion was approved by almost everyone present. Everyone whispered among themselves, and the five top talents listened with meaningful smiles on their faces.
Dongfang Honglei slammed his fist on the table: "Fine, I, Dongfang Honglei, support using the name Iron-Blooded Journey."
Li Ming still had a smile on his face as he looked at the others.
"I have no objection, I fully support it." Li Miaoran smiled slightly, her face like a gentle spring breeze, her eyes sparkling with wisdom and tenderness, as if she were lost in thought.
"If Junior Sister Miaoran supports me, then I, Hu Dinghuan, also support her." Hu Dinghuan held the crystal skull and looked at Li Miaoran with undisguised affection in his eyes.
Hu Dinghuan's meaning was clear: he supported the name "Iron-Blooded Journey" not for any other reason than Li Miaoran's support.
“If Miao Ran supports it, then I, You Haoshen, absolutely support it. Using the name ‘Iron-Blooded Journey’ is perfectly fine.” You Haoshen also stated that if Li Miao Ran supports it, then he will support it.
Li Ming smiled slightly: "Alright, from now on we will be members of the Iron-Blooded Conquest Alliance." Changing the subject, Li Ming continued: "With the establishment of the alliance, there should naturally be an alliance leader to coordinate and manage things."
These words immediately created a subtle atmosphere in the conference room. All eyes turned to Li Ming, seemingly trying to guess his next move. A thoughtful expression flashed across Dongfang Honglei's face, while Li Miaoran gently smoothed her hair that fell over her shoulder, her eyes filled with both expectation and scrutiny. Hu Dinghuan and You Haoshen exchanged glances, each with their own calculations.
"Regarding the selection of the alliance leader," Li Ming said, glancing around the room. His tone was calm yet carried an undeniable strength. "I believe we should choose someone who can command respect, possesses exceptional leadership skills, and can lead us together to face the challenges of the future. This person must have a far-sighted strategic vision, unwavering will, and a fair and selfless heart."
Upon hearing this, Hu Dinghuan's lips curled into a playful smile: "Brother Li's words make sense, but I wonder if you have a suitable candidate in mind?"
Li Ming did not answer directly, but instead turned his gaze to Li Miaoran, his eyes sparkling with trust and expectation: "Miaoran, you are exceptionally intelligent. In your past experiences, you have offered unique insights at crucial moments, helping us turn danger into safety. More importantly, your fairness and gentleness can unite people and make our team more cohesive. I believe you are the only choice for the alliance leader."
Li Miaoran was clearly surprised by what she heard. She stood up gently, her gaze sweeping over everyone with a soft yet firm look: "I am flattered by Senior Brother Li Ming's praise, but I know that I still have many shortcomings in martial arts and leadership. I would rather be a strategist, offering advice to the alliance, than standing at the forefront and leading the way. I believe that this position is more suitable for Senior Brother Li Ming."
Li Miaoran's refusal sparked another round of discussion among the attendees. Hu Dinghuan and You Haoshen exchanged a glance, both seeing resentment and ambition in each other's eyes. They were determined to secure the position of alliance leader, and they couldn't allow Li Ming and Li Miaoran to put on a show here and ultimately decide the alliance leader's position.
Li Ming was the strongest fighter among their group, a fact that Hu Dinghuan and You Haoshen had to admit. However, it was impossible for them to simply give up the position of alliance leader. It was clear that Li Miaoran and Li Ming were putting on an act; they could tell that Li Miaoran wanted to recommend Li Ming for the position.
Li Ming gently shook his head, a hint of admiration flashing in his eyes: "Miaoran, your humility is admirable. But please listen to me, an excellent leader not only needs martial prowess and wisdom, but also a heart willing to take responsibility and dare to take on challenges. As for me, I may have strengths in strategy and planning, but I am far inferior to you in terms of uniting people and maintaining team harmony. Furthermore, the alliance is newly established, and we need a banner that everyone can trust and that can lead us forward together."
At this point, Li Ming paused deliberately, looked around, and seeing that everyone was listening intently, before continuing, "Therefore, I propose that Miao Ran serve as the first leader of the Iron-Blooded Conquest Alliance, and I am willing to serve as the vice leader, fully assisting Miao Ran and working together to create our glorious future."
After a brief silence, the meeting room erupted in enthusiastic applause.
"Okay, we have no problem with Senior Sister Miaoran being the alliance leader."
"Yes, we have no objection."
"It's a bit of a waste of Senior Brother Li's talents to be the vice leader."
The people from the Heavenly Vein Sect and the Soul Guiding Sect cheered, creating a lively atmosphere, while the Southern Night Extreme Sect and the Miannan Empire chose to remain silent. Because they disagreed.
"Everyone, please calm down." You Haoshen raised his hands and waited for everyone to quiet down before slowly saying, "I, You Haoshen, have no objection to Miao Ran being the alliance leader, but it is indeed difficult for Li Ming to be the vice alliance leader. Apart from cultivation, he knows nothing else. How can he be the vice alliance leader? This vice alliance leader position should be filled by me, You Haoshen."
"Yes, our Senior Brother You should be the vice leader. He is the most suitable candidate."
"My senior brother is in love with Senior Sister Miaoran, otherwise he should be the leader of the alliance."
The people of the Southern Night Extreme Sect were all boasting that they would not be satisfied or agree if the position of vice leader did not fall to You Haoshen today.
The previously harmonious atmosphere in the meeting room instantly became tense. The disciples of the Heavenly Vein Sect and the Soul Guiding Sect exchanged glances, clearly surprised and dissatisfied by the sudden change in the Southern Night Extreme Sect. Li Miaoran's lips curled into a faint smile, her gaze lightly sweeping over You Haoshen, as if silently weighing something.
“Junior Brother You, I appreciate your kindness.” Senior Sister Miaoran’s voice was gentle yet carried an undeniable strength: “However, the selection of the Vice Alliance Leader is not solely based on personal preference or cultivation level. Senior Brother Li Ming’s combat strength is consistently the highest among us, and his ability to manage the sect’s affairs for many years is evident to all. More importantly, he possesses a fair and selfless heart, which is precisely the quality required of a Vice Alliance Leader.”
"Furthermore," Senior Sister Miaoran continued, her gaze sweeping across the room, her tone carrying an undeniable air, "our alliance aims to jointly resist the impending crisis. What we need is unity, not internal strife and division. The vice leader's responsibility is to assist the leader in handling daily affairs and to make the right decisions at critical moments. I believe that Senior Brother Li Ming is certainly capable of this role."
Upon hearing this, the disciples of the Southern Night Extreme Sect reacted in various ways; some were unconvinced, while others seemed thoughtful. You Haoshen's expression changed slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. He clearly hadn't expected Li Miaoran to respond to his challenge so directly and resolutely.
You Haoshen and Hu Dinghuan exchanged a glance, their understanding unspoken.
It's impossible for Li Miaoran to like Li Ming, because they didn't see a trace of affection in her eyes. The reason Li Miaoran supported Li Ming as vice-leader was precisely because Li Ming supported her becoming leader.
The alliance the two have temporarily formed, with one on offense and the other on defense, is a bit tricky. The main problem is that both You Haoshen and Hu Dinghuan like Li Miaoran, and they can't afford to offend her, otherwise they'll anger her, and they might as well not even try to compete for the position of vice leader.
“Miao Ran is right. I was too impulsive.” You Haoshen forced a smile, trying to ease the atmosphere: “Since Miao Ran trusts Li Ming so much, I will give my full support. However, the responsibilities of the vice leader are heavy, and I hope that Li Ming will live up to expectations.”
Hu Dinghuan gave him a disdainful look. He never expected You Haoshen to give in so easily. You're the biggest sycophant in the world.
Unexpectedly, You Haoshen changed the subject and continued, "There can't be just one vice leader; there should be at least two to share the burden with the leader. Li Ming will be in charge of logistics, and I will also be a vice leader, responsible for battle arrangements. There will be no conflict between us."
"Damn it." Hu Dinghuan sneered. He hadn't expected that bastard You Haoshen would have such a killer move. He had divided up the power and also secured a position as a vice leader.
Hu Dinghuan toyed with the crystal skull in his hand, leaning back in his chair, and slowly said, "The alliance of the five major forces still leaves us each to our own devices. Why create so much trouble? To be honest, you are all vice-leaders. Do you have the right to order me, Hu Dinghuan, around?"
Li Ming's eyes burned with fire, and he exuded an unassailable kingly aura. His voice had become much colder: "Since everyone has objections to the position of vice leader, then let's decide it by strength. Today, I, Li Ming, will not use weapons and will accept any challenge from anyone."
The scene fell silent instantly. Li Ming was clearly aiming to seize the position of vice leader through force. Of course, Li Ming did possess the ability; he was the most powerful and skilled among those present. Whenever they needed support or assistance, Li Ming was the first person they thought of.
However, at that moment, a calm and powerful voice rang out from the meeting hall: "I, Dongfang Honglei, support Zheng Qian as the leader of the alliance."
These words caused a brief silence to fall over the entire conference room once again. All eyes were on Dongfang Honglei, this man of fiery temper, whose remarks undoubtedly introduced a new variable into the discussion about the selection of the leader of the alliance.
Dongfang Honglei had never participated in these kinds of discussions before, but today, for some reason, he was strongly supporting Zheng Qian.
Zheng Qian was also dumbfounded. "Brother, if you ask me to name someone, I'll immediately come up with one, and everyone will give me face and not refuse. Now you want me to be the leader of the alliance? With my late-stage Dragon Shaping Realm and Dragon Transformation Realm cultivation, it's not appropriate."
You Haoshen's face darkened. He hadn't expected Dongfang Honglei to stand up for Zheng Qian at this moment. He had originally thought that his proposed candidate for vice leader would receive the support of most people, but now it seemed that things weren't so simple.
The atmosphere in the meeting hall became tense and subtle once again. People from various factions were calculating their own gains and losses, and a covert battle for the selection of the alliance leader was quietly beginning. Li Miaoran sat quietly, watching everything with a deep gaze, lost in thought.
Li Ming tapped his fingers on the table and suddenly said, "I also support my master to be the leader of the alliance."
"On what grounds?" You Haoshen stood up abruptly and roared, "Zheng Qian is indeed a prodigy, but he's only at the Dragon Transformation Realm. How could he possibly lead us in battle and become our support in the Ghost Wind Rift Valley?"
Hu Dinghuan sneered: "Li Ming, Dongfang Honglei, there is no problem with the five of us choosing the position of alliance leader. Zheng Qian is your Tianmai Sect's grandmaster. In my eyes, he is just a nobody in the Dragon Transformation Realm, not worthy of being mentioned. It is already more than enough that he named the alliance. Any further unreasonable demands will only make us a laughing stock."
Zheng Qian was unhappy. How dare these two people look down on me? Who gave them the audacity?
He slowly stood up, his gaze sharp, his voice steady yet imposing: "You Haoshen, Hu Dinghuan, I understand your doubts and disdain. But how can one judge a person's ability and value solely by their cultivation level? The Dragon Transformation Realm is not the pinnacle for me, nor is it the standard by which everything is measured."
You Haoshen and Hu Dinghuan sneered, looking at each other sideways. They disdained to refute Zheng Qian, feeling that talking to him would be beneath them.
Zheng Qian spoke calmly, taking out two medals and a rank plaque, saying, "I've been in the Ghost Wind Rift for twelve days and earned the Starry Sky Wise and Courage Medal, the highest honor in the Alliance of Strategists. The Radiant Legion's vice commander personally awarded the Radiant Proof Medal, with my name and the words 'Guardian War God' on the back. I, Zheng Qian, have never thought of becoming the Alliance Leader, but since you two have questioned me, I, Zheng Qian, really have no choice but to take the position."
Taking a deep breath, Zheng Qian continued, "Two major forces are entrenched in the Youfeng Rift Valley: the Radiant Legion and the Strategic Alliance. I, Zheng Qian, have influence over General Zhao Nuo and Lieutenant General Ma Yi of the Radiant Legion. Xiao Zhi, the leader of the Strategic Alliance, is both my mentor and friend, and I am also his honorary deputy chief of staff. Would you all be able to enter the Strategic Tower for this meeting today without my approval?"
You Haoshen and Hu Dinghuan's faces were cold. Zheng Qian had single-handedly initiated the gate-blocking battle and held out for four days to gain so much honor; they simply didn't have that ability. Let alone them, even Li Ming might not be able to initiate a gate-blocking battle, let alone for four days.
Interpersonal relationships are equally important in the Wind Rift. They need the Radiant Legion and the Strategic Alliance to assign them missions, and they also need the support of these two major forces when they encounter danger. Considering this, Zheng Qian seems to be the most suitable person to be the alliance leader.
Looking at the two unconvinced individuals, Zheng Qian narrowed his eyes and said coldly, "A higher cultivation level only means a longer cultivation time. I, Zheng Qian, will catch up quickly. In a battle between people of the same cultivation level, you are both trash in front of me, Zheng Qian."