The Bet

"Kaze, I cannot deny that your dual cultivation is powerful or that your actions are strangely wise in unreasonable ways." Evalyn said, "Still, we are talking about an existential threat.

I fail to see how the Underground Bizarre is more important than that."

"The Underground Bizarre is both a release and reward." Kaze explained, "If we use it as an incentive, reputation points can generate the excess labor and strength we need."

Evalyn's eyes deadened, her perplexion overtaking her irritation. "Did you just imply that you are making increased training and labor voluntary?"

"Your ears work fine. Must you ridicule everything before you change your mind?" The emperor asked brazenly.

The Ice General opened and closed her mouth, recognizing her record. So she chose her words carefully.

"I recognize my shortcomings, so I won't criticize you for free." Evalyn replied, "I'll bet you that my soldiers are better trained by the time you transfer to Lainwright."