This is really not mechanical ascension

Chapter 725: Chapter 377: How Can You Still Call for Reinforcements?_2

He frowned slightly; if he wanted to prove his role in this matter, he would have to disclose that Li Ming had secretly communicated with the Dominion Holy Image. But doing so might lead people to suspect that he was the true inheritor.

Especially those shrewd pioneers.

“Let them suspect, whatever. Azure Dragon is, after all, a Divine Craftsman. Without concrete evidence, mere suspicion doesn’t amount to much.” Li Ming contemplated; perfection was unattainable, sacrifices had to be made.

Clarifying this matter would not only account for the benefits provided by the pioneers earlier but also serve as his entry ticket to that Council.

If he could discern the pioneers’ final plan ahead of time, things would be far smoother for him.

“Everything needs to connect seamlessly… How should I put this? Just say Azure Dragon and Forging Hammer are old acquaintances…”

As Li Ming was deliberating his words, his body suddenly jolted. His gaze grew profound. “So it was here… What a Prince Costat—the Empire’s right hand.”

In connecting all the events and pondering his remarks for the pioneers, he figured out why Costat had been so cordial and why he chose to save him.

“Sowing discord…” He realized.

Because he couldn’t come up with a plausible explanation for Prince Costat confronting Prince Ryan over Li Ming.

Costat’s rationale for not escalating the matter fell apart. The situation at the scene had long spiraled out of control; even if not killed, capturing him would have sufficed. Yet he was let go.

Afraid of offending Azure Dragon? Even more unlikely.