Chapter 2403

Just like that, Clint tore up the talisman. However, he had done his homework and knew that the talisman was not something that could be torn apart with just brute force. Hence, he used his time warp ability to rapidly constrict the talisman and finally tear it into pieces.

It was then that dark clouds covered the sky and Dusky realized that the heavenly emperor had witnessed the scene. It was likely Clint would be in trouble.

Sure enough, the heavenly emperor appeared before everyone and dragged them into a barrier at a speed that no one could react to.

The heavenly emperor sat before the crowd as everyone unconsciously fell to their knees, not daring to meet his gaze at all. At this moment, the heavenly emperor asked in a voice that struck everyone's hearts, "Why did you destroy the talisman?"

Dusky hurriedly answered, "Your Majesty, this was simply an accident. It was damaged when Clint and I got into a fight. I pray for your forgiveness."

"Oh? Was that really the case?" The heavenly emperor mused as he looked toward Nash and Clint.

Dusky prayed for them to hurry and lie because as long as they did, they would be safe.

Noting that the two of them seemed to be delaying their answer, the heavenly emperor turned to look at Dusky.

"Ruin, I recall telling you not to interfere with the actions of other agents, correct?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," Dusky replied.

"Then why did you engage the other two in conflict?"

With tons of experience under his belt, Dusky knew how to navigate such situations and quickly adjusted his strategy. He planned to take the blame entirely upon himself, believing that by shouldering it, the heavenly emperor would focus the punishment solely on him and overlook the destruction of the divine talisman. "My deepest apologies, Your Majesty. I lost my judgment in the moment. I was trying to improve efficiency and targeted the other agents..."

"Ruin," the heavenly emperor cut through icily, interrupting Dusky. It was clear he was not falling for Dusky's words.

"I've given you an opportunity. This is yet another one. If I don't hear an answer that satisfies me—if you dare lie to me again—then perhaps I should no longer show you any leniency."

His words showed that he was already exercising remarkable restraint.

Dusky clenched his teeth, looking as if he was coming to a difficult decision. He looked up at the heavenly emperor, trying to gather his composure. "I swear, none of what I just said was false. It was because of my-"

"Enough!" Just then, Clint stood up, interrupting the exchange. He had anticipated this outcome when he made his choice. Now, he was ready to bear all the consequences.

Even though there was a hint of pleading in Dusky's eyes, Clint still stepped forward.

"It was me. I destroyed the talisman!"

"Oh? And what was the reason?"

"The reason is that Ronan is who he is. I believe in him. He can overcome this challenge on his own, without relying on some talisman! That's why I tore it up!"

After his words, silence fell over the room.

The heavenly emperor said nothing but instead looked at Clint with an amused expression. Suddenly, an invisible attack shot toward Clint.

Dusky quickly used his true energy to save Clint from the attack.

The heavenly emperor looked at Dusky in confusion.

"You, what's the meaning of this?"

"I should be asking you the same question!"

"Do you really think you're qualified to ask me that question?" The heavenly emperor's cold tone struck again.

Clint stood up once more then. "You're the heavenly emperor, right? The leader of

all the gods, correct? Then, I wonder, Your Majesty-do you have the courage to answer some of my questions?"