Chapter 13: Hun Feng's Pride
Hun Xiu's calm retort echoed through the square, prompting the younger generation to murmur among themselves.
"What he said makes sense," whispered one.
"Even if it's just a day older, he's still the elder brother," another nodded.
Hun Feng's face darkened as the discussion gained momentum. From a young age, he had always been the center of admiration. To be questioned, ridiculed, and outmaneuvered by Hun Xiu stung deeply. His ego couldn't bear the humiliation.
Hun Feng straightened his back, glaring at Hun Xiu. "Hun Xiu, this continent respects the strong. Age doesn't matter—strength does."
The moment those words left his mouth, Hun Feng realized his mistake. His opponent was not only older but stronger. Much stronger.
A faint smirk spread across Hun Xiu's face. "Ah, Brother Feng, you're absolutely right. But since I'm both older and stronger, doesn't that mean I'm your senior in every way?"
Hun Feng faltered, taking a step back as Hun Xiu advanced. "You—you can't hit me! Father will punish you!" he stammered.
Hun Xiu chuckled, cracking his knuckles. "Father's punishment? That's tomorrow's problem. Right now, you'd better call me Big Brother Xiu, or else..."
Hun Feng's bravado dissolved as he weighed his options. His strength, as a mere Dou Shi, was laughable compared to Hun Xiu's. One punch would send him sprawling, and in front of the entire clan no less. His hesitation turned to trembling.
"Brother... Big Brother Xiu," Hun Feng finally muttered under his breath.
Hun Xiu patted his shoulder with mock benevolence. "Good, Brother Feng. Don't worry, from now on, your Big Brother Xiu will protect you. You can walk sideways everywhere in the Soul Clan."
Hun Feng's face twitched at the blatant patronization, but he dared not argue. Internally, he muttered bitterly, I don't need your protection. My father's the clan leader—I'm already untouchable.
The crowd began to disperse, the spectacle over. Hun Feng retreated to his group, head hanging low.
Hun Yu, who had stayed silent throughout, greeted him with a sheepish smile.
"Hun Yu!" snapped Hun Feng. "Why didn't you step up to back me?"
"I was afraid…" Hun Yu confessed, his voice barely audible.
Hun Feng: "…"
As much as he hated to admit it, Hun Yu's words made sense. Facing Hun Xiu was terrifying, even for him.