The Emperor's cheerful chortle made Ba Qingyue almost ignore the dishonourable way in which his title was removed. Among high gods, removing a lord's title upon addressing a person of rank was an undisguised insult.
The Fox God tightly clenched his fists underneath his long sleeves. Sharp claws pierced ivory skin as he forced himself not to be riled by the obvious power display, for he could not afford to offend this particular deity, this much he knew.
"This Lord does not presume to look down upon his own ruler." Bai Qingyue's calm and graceful voice filled the throne room.
The Jade Emperor laughed aloud again, the sound was as clear as silver bells, "And yet you did all the same. Young Fox, you cannot fool us."
"This Lord did not intend to disrespect the Jade Emperor." Blood trickled down from his palms onto the floor as Bai Qingyue spoke.
