422: Chapter 422 I still prefer the clan leader's unruly demeanor from earlier.

Wu Ping stepped into the Shiyang Tribe's discussion tent with steady steps.

He saw the Chief of the Shiyang Tribe sitting in the seat of honor, with several elders seated on either side.

They were dressed in magnificent clothes unique to their tribe, and pride shone in everyone's eyes.

"Greetings, Chief!"

"Greetings, Elders!"

Wu Ping did not dare to be negligent; he quickly placed his right hand over his chest and bowed respectfully to them.

The Chief and the elders nodded slightly, acknowledging Wu Ping's presence.

"Wu Ping, you wrote that you have important matters to inform us of."

The Chief of the Shiyang Tribe looked at Wu Ping and spoke first, "Now that we are all gathered, tell us, what is it you want with us?"

"Chief, Elders, His Majesty the Head of State of Great Qin intends to recruit our Shiyang Tribe..."

Before Wu Ping could finish, the Chief of the Shiyang Tribe threw his head back and let out a burst of disdainful laughter.

The elders beside him joined in the laughter, which echoed through the empty tent and sounded particularly grating.

After a long while, the Chief stopped laughing. His eyes, sharp as an eagle's, fixed on Wu Ping as he said coldly, "Hmph, I know nothing of any Paramount Leader of Great Qin."

"I don't care about some Paramount Leader of Great Qin; he can forget about recruiting our Shiyang Tribe! Our Shiyang Tribe has stood tall in the Hexi Corridor for a thousand years, weathering countless storms. Do you think we can be recruited just like that?"

"Exactly!"

A white-haired elder stroked his beard and took over with an arrogant expression, "We are not some small tribe that submits to others at the drop of a hat. Over the years, many powers have sought to ally with us, but we have never agreed. Though Great Qin is strong, do not underestimate the backbone and heritage of our Shiyang Tribe!"

Another burly elder crossed his arms and said forcefully, "That's right! Every warrior of our Shiyang Tribe grew up on horseback. To protect the tribe, we have never feared any enemy. Great Qin may be strong, but they shouldn't expect us to bow our heads so easily!"

At this moment, the Grand Elder, who had remained silent, slowly stood up. His gaze fixed on Wu Ping, and his voice, though low, was full of authority. "Our Shiyang Tribe is used to being free and unfettered; we do not wish to be bound by others at will. Even if it is Great Qin, the matter is non-negotiable."

After saying this, a hint of resolve appeared in his eyes as he sat back down.

The high-ranking members of the Shiyang Tribe looked at each other again, their eyes filled with determination and pride, as if to show Wu Ping that their Shiyang Tribe would never be recruited by Great Qin.

Seeing the arrogant looks of the Shiyang Tribe's leadership, Wu Ping calmly clapped his hands.

A group of attendants entered in an orderly fashion, carrying many heavy boxes. They filed in and placed them firmly in front of the Chief and the elders.

"His Majesty the Head of State promises that as long as our tribe submits, there will be endless wealth and prosperity!"

Wu Ping said, "This is His Majesty's sincerity."

With a series of "clangs," the boxes were opened one by one. In an instant, a dazzling silver light poured out like a flood, as if to fill the entire discussion tent.

The piles of gleaming silver shimmered with an alluring light under the reflection of the torches in the tent, making everyone's eyes ache.

The Chief, who had been looking arrogant with his nose in the air just a moment ago, suddenly gaped. His eyes widened as if they were about to fall out, staring fixedly at the silver as if he had been hit by a freezing spell, motionless.

He, who had just been so aggressive about not submitting easily, now had his jaw nearly hitting the floor. The expression on his face seemed to freeze for a moment, then thawed within seconds, replaced by a look of greed.

The corners of Wu Ping's mouth curled slightly; he still preferred the Chief's unyielding look from just now.